Context:

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, the first American to become pope, signaling a significant shift in the Catholic Church's leadership. He was chosen quickly during a conclave attended by 133 cardinals, which was notable for its diversity and the challenge of reaching consensus. Pope Leo XIV, who has spent much of his life in Peru and held significant Vatican posts, is expected to build on Pope Francis' legacy of inclusivity and openness, although his stance on LGBTQ+ issues remains uncertain. His election follows the death of Pope Francis, who was remembered for championing change within the church. The new pope's initial speech emphasized peace, unity, and continued dialogue with laypeople and bishops, reflecting his Augustinian values and international experience.

Dive Deeper:

• Robert Francis Prevost, born in Chicago, was elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV, and becoming the first American pope, a development that defied expectations given the traditional view that an American pope was unlikely.

• The conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV was notable for its quick decision, taking just over 24 hours and involving 133 cardinals, the largest group ever in a conclave, many of whom were appointed by the late Pope Francis, highlighting the diverse and divided nature of the gathering.

• Pope Leo XIV has a rich international background, having served in Peru for two decades where he became a bishop and a naturalized citizen, and later led his religious order globally, showing a commitment to the poor and migrants, akin to Pope Francis.

• Despite his American roots, Pope Leo XIV is seen as transcending national borders, speaking multiple languages including Spanish and Italian, and is expected to continue the consultative process begun by Pope Francis, inviting laypeople to engage with bishops.

• While Pope Leo XIV's commitment to peace and unity was clear in his first public appearance, there is uncertainty regarding his approach to LGBTQ+ issues, as he has previously expressed concerns about Western media fostering sympathy for beliefs contrary to the Gospel.

• The election process was marked by traditional rituals, including the signaling of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel, and the new pope's appearance on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, where he greeted the world with words of peace, setting the tone for his papacy.

• The new pope's emphasis on a synodal church, one that is close to those who suffer, aligns with his background as a member of the Order of St. Augustine, and his election follows a period of mourning and reflection after the death of Pope Francis, who left a significant legacy of reform.