A New Pope for the World: Meet Pope Leo XIV
After the death of Pope Francis, the Roman Catholic Church elected a new leader — Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope. He is 69 years old and wants peace in the world.
In May 2025, the Catholic Church saw a major change. On 21st April 2025, Pope Francis, who had led the Church since 2013, sadly passed away. He was loved all over the world for his kindness, love for the poor, and care for the environment.
After a pope passes away, senior Catholic leaders called cardinals come together at the Vatican in Rome. They hold a special and secret voting process called a conclave inside the Sistine Chapel to choose a new pope.
During this time, the world watches the chapel’s chimney. Black smoke means no decision has been made. But when white smoke rises, it means a new pope has been chosen.
On 8th May 2025, the white smoke appeared — and the world knew the Church had a new leader.
The cardinals made a historic decision by choosing Robert Francis Prevost, a cardinal from Chicago, USA, who has spent many years working in Peru. He is now the 267th pope of the Catholic Church and has taken the name Pope Leo XIV. This makes him the first pope from America.
Who Is Pope Leo XIV?
- He is 69 years old.
- He belongs to the Order of Saint Augustine, a group known for service and education.
- He speaks both English and Spanish.
- He understands the cultures of both North and South America.
- Before becoming pope, he was helping select bishops for churches around the world.
- He is known for standing up for peace, justice, and young people.
- He chose the name “Leo” to honour past popes, especially Pope Leo XIII, who supported the rights of workers and the poor.
First Words as Pope:
Standing on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in front of a huge crowd, Pope Leo XIV said:
“Let there be peace. Never again war. Especially in Gaza and Ukraine.”
His message was full of hope and love.
People in America and around the world are happy and hopeful. Many believe Pope Leo XIV will bring different cultures together and lead the Church with kindness, action, and unity.
This marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church.
