First American pope: Cardinal Robert Prevost chosen as Leo XIV
"It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope," said U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday, congratulating Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on his election as the head of the Catholic Church. He added that he looks forward to meeting the new pope.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a clergyman with American-Peruvian roots, was elected the new pope, taking the name Leo XIV. His election is a groundbreaking moment in the history of the Church, as he is the first pope from the United States.
Prevost was elected pope during the conclave at the Vatican. His 69-year life and extensive experience in both missionary and administrative activities provide a strong foundation for his new role. The name he chose, Leo XIV, symbolizes a new era in the history of the papacy.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Robert Francis Prevost comes from a family with Italian and Spanish roots. He has been associated with the Church since his early years, graduating from the seminary of the Order of Saint Augustine, and later earning a bachelor's degree in mathematics at Villanova University. In 1977, he entered the Augustinian novitiate, and in 1982, he was ordained in Rome.
Trump reacts to the new pope
Political reactions to Prevost's election as pope were enthusiastic. The President of the United States, Donald Trump, commented on this event on his social media platform.
"Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment," wrote Donald Trump.
