Vatican City, May 8, 2025 — History was made today as Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, from the United States was elected the new pope, taking the name Leo XIV and becoming the first American pope in history.

From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV delivered his first public message, the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, addressing the city of Rome and the entire world. The square below erupted in applause and cheers as he greeted the faithful with the simple but powerful words: “Peace be with you all.”

In his speech, Leo XIV paid warm tribute to his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, praising the humility and courage Francis showed throughout his papacy. “Let us keep in our ears the weak but always brave voice of Pope Francis,” Leo XIV said. “Evil will not prevail. We are all in the hands of God.”

The new pontiff emphasized themes of unity, dialogue, and global reconciliation. Drawing inspiration from his background as an Augustinian, Leo XIV called on the Church to walk together “without fear,” as faithful missionaries proclaiming Christ and working for peace and justice.

Highlighting his close ties to Latin America, Leo XIV offered a heartfelt greeting in Spanish, addressing the people of Chiclayo, Peru, where he once served as bishop. “A loyal, faithful people, accompanying the bishop and helping the bishop,” he said warmly.

Leo XIV also emphasized the need for the Church to be open and welcoming to all, describing the symbolic openness of St. Peter’s Square as a place for dialogue, encounter, and love.

As part of his first address, the pope invoked the intercession of the Virgin Mary, leading the crowd in prayer on this Supplicatio day dedicated to Our Lady of Pompeii.

Concluding his blessing, Pope Leo XIV reminded the faithful of the Church’s mission to stay united, especially in serving those who suffer, and to continue striving for global peace.

The world now looks to Pope Leo XIV to guide the Catholic Church into a new chapter, with hopes that his leadership will bring renewed strength, compassion, and reconciliation to the world stage.