Following the recent passing of Pope Francis at age 88, the Catholic Church has officially named his successor: 69-year-old Cardinal Robert Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV. The historic choice makes him the first American to become pope.
Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV previously served as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru (2015–2023) and was head of the Order of Saint Augustine (2001–2013). The decision came after a secretive conclave of 138 eligible cardinals voting inside the Sistine Chapel. Cardinals must be under 80 to vote, and a two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope.
