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The Catholic Church has elected its first American pope in history: Cardinal Robert Prevost who will now be known by his papal name, Pope Leo XIV.
Shortly after white smoke was seen billowing over the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the college of cardinals had chosen a new pontiff, Pope Leo took to the Vatican balcony to deliver the Urbi et Orbi blessing to the crowd of thousands gathered in St Peter's Square.
Read More on the Pope From Newsweek:
Who Is Robert Prevost? New Pope Leo XIV Announced
Pope Leo XIV Elected to Lead Catholic Church, Addresses Vatican Crowd-Watch
Donald Trump Reacts to New Pope
What Does 'Habemus Papam' Mean? New Pope Elected at the Vatican
What to Know
- Pope Leo was born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago, where he was part of St. Mary of the Assumption parish near Dolton, Illinois, according to a Chicago Sun-Times report. He went onto spend most of his clerical life abroad in Peru.
- The 69-year-old cardinal, who is fluent in Spanish and Italian, has been elected amid a growing ideological divide with the Catholic Church over whether it should continue down Pope Francis' more progressive path to a more open church, or return to a more traditional, strict doctrine.
- Leo represents a center ground between the reformist path, or shift toward a more traditional model.
- The American cardinal was elected on just day two of the conclave following the death of Pope Francis, at the age of 88, on April 21.
Newsweek's live blog is closed.
May 08, 2025 at 07:56 PM EDT
Pope Leo XI is fourth consecutive non-Italian pontiff
Since the beginning of the Catholic Church, the vast majority of its popes, 81 percent, have been Italian.
But in recent years, that dominance has been disrupted by a run of non-Italian pontiffs.
The last Italian pope, John Paul I, who served for just 33 days in 1978, was succeeded by Pope John Paul II (1978–2005) from Poland.
He was followed by German Pope Benedict XVI (2005–2013) and then Pope Francis (2013–2025) from Argentina.
Pope Leo XIV, who was elected today, is from Chicago, Illinois.
May 08, 2025 at 07:47 PM EDT
Pope Leo ‘is a Cubs fan,’ says Archdiocese of Chicago
Rev. Gregory Sakowicz, the rector of Chicago's Holy Name Cathedral, has revealed that Chicago-born Pope Leo is a Cubs fan.
"I heard he's a Cubs fan," said Sakowicz. "Well, God bless him, and God bless all the fans."
Sakowicz added that he still had one "burning question" about the new pope.
"Is he a Chicago White Sox fan?" he asked.
May 08, 2025 at 07:23 PM EDT
Latin American leaders share hopes Pope Leo will follow in Francis’ footsteps
In Latin America, leaders emphasized Pope Leo XIV's cultural roots and the region's spiritual ties to the Catholic Church.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, leader of the country with the world's largest Catholic population, expressed hope that the new pope would continue the inclusive legacy of his predecessor.
"We don't need wars, hatred, and intolerance. We need more solidarity and more humanism. We need love for our neighbor, which is the foundation of Christ's teachings. May Pope Leo XIV bless and inspire us in the ongoing pursuit of a better and fairer world," Lula wrote on X.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro echoed his Brazilian counterpart, saying that the new pope "is more than an American. His immediate ancestors are Latinos: Spaniards and French, and he lived forty years in our Latin America, in Peru."
"May he be the great leader of migrant peoples in the world... and may he help us build the great human force that defends life and defeats the greed causing climate crisis and extinction," Petro added.
Mexico's President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo struck a similar tone. "We congratulate His Holiness Leo XIV, elected by the College of Cardinals as head of the State of Vatican City and spiritual leader of the Catholic Church," she posted. "I reaffirm our humanist convergence in favor of peace and world prosperity."
From Argentina, President Javier Milei issued an official statement praising the new pontificate as "a light that guides" in a fragmented world. The statement underscored the pope's mission to defend "life, liberty, and private property," and called on his leadership to act as a "shield against the culture of death, growing totalitarianism, and immoral relativism."
May 08, 2025 at 07:19 PM EDT
Canada’s new prime minister offers ‘prayers and best wishes’ for the pope
New Canadian Prime Minister Carney, who is Catholic, called the pope's election a "historic day for Catholics and all who look to the Vatican for guidance."
"At a time of global challenges, may his pontificate carry forward a mission of solidarity, compassion, and dignity for all." Carney said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
"I offer my prayers and best wishes to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election."
May 08, 2025 at 06:54 PM EDT
MAGA attacks Pope Leo XIV for stances on Trump, immigration
Some of Pope Leo XIV's online posts have sparked criticism from Make America Great Again (MAGA) supporters, who took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the new pope on Thursday shortly after he was named pontiff.
Based on previous posts made to his social media account, Leo has been critical of the Trump administration, resharing a Washington Post article titled "Cardinal Dolan: Why Donald Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric is so problematic," in 2015.
He has also reshared a message that said, "I stand with the #Dreamers," and most recently in February, he reshared an article titled "JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn't ask us to rank our love for others" from the National Catholic Reporter.
On Thursday, MAGA supporters called attention to Leo's reshare of the article, with political strategist Joey Mannarino calling the new pope a "liberal piece of [s***]" in a post to X, formerly Twitter.
Laura Loomer posted on X: "The new Pope @drprevost supports illegal aliens and open borders. He retweeted tweets in support of "dreamers" aka illegals and attacked President Trump's use of the phrase "bad hombres" to describe violent illegal aliens. He thinks it's a "racist" phrase."
Despite these stances, Trump and Vance congratulated Leo on Thursday.
May 08, 2025 at 06:40 PM EDT
Robert Prevost’s posts on social media question Trump’s immigration policy
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Social media posts from Robert Prevost, newly named Pope Leo XIV, show recent criticism of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Prevost, 69, on Thursday became the first American pope selected by the Catholic Church. He was a missionary, then a Vatican official after spending years in Peru as a minister.
This year, he has five posts on X, formerly Twitter, with two about immigration. In the first immigration-related X post on February 13, Prevost said: "Pope Francis' letter, JD Vance's 'ordo amoris' and what the Gospel asks of all of us on immigration," copying a link from America the Jesuit Review.
The article says in part: "it ought to be clear that Catholics cannot support a rhetoric that demonizes immigrants as dangerously criminal simply because they have crossed the border in search of a better life for themselves and their families. It ought to be clear that Catholics cannot celebrate aggressive deportation enforcement as a spectacle. It ought to be clear that Catholics cannot accept a theory of love that pats itself on the back for putting some of the poorest among us farthest from our concern and charity."
The second post on April 14 was a repost from X account Rocco Palmo: "As Trump & Bukele use Oval to 🤣 Feds' illicit deportation of a US resident (https://bit.ly/3ROMjnP), once an undoc-ed Salvadorean himself, now-DC Aux +Evelio asks, 'Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed? How can you stay quiet?' https://bit.ly/4j700KN"
Read in full from Anna Commander and Dan Gooding on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 06:22 PM EDT
Trump’s former comms director says election of Pope Leo is rebuttal to American nationalism
Anthony Scaramucci, President Donald Trump's former White House Communications Director, has said the election of Pope Leo XIV is sending a message amid the "bullying and some intimidation going on in the world right now."
"They elected the antipode of that," Scaramucci, also known as The Mooch, said on The Rest Is Politics: US podcast*. "*They elected a missionary, they elected somebody that's for the poor and for the indigent, and I think they're sending a message. It's not just a message to the J.D. Vances and the Donald Trumps of the world — but I actually think it's a broader message about where we are, what the global identity should be."
Scaramucci added that Pope Leo is also a "counter-dote to nationalism."
"He represents balance, moral leadership, and the rights of the poor. And whether you call that political or not, the message is clear," he said.
May 08, 2025 at 06:14 PM EDT
Which sports teams does Pope Leo XIV Support: What we know
Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, has spoken fondly and frequently about his enduring love for tennis. However, the Chicago native's favorite Major League Baseball team seems to be a matter of debate.
It was during his extended time living in Peru that Prevost said he developed a deep appreciation for tennis, finding in it both a physical outlet and a complement to his spiritual life.
"I consider myself a big tennis fan," he said in an interview published on augustinianorder.org several years ago. "Since leaving Peru, I haven't had many chances to play, so I'm really looking forward to getting back on the court."
May 08, 2025 at 05:59 PM EDT
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulates Pope Leo
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has congratulated the newly elected Pope Leo.
"We sincerely congratulate His Holiness Leo XIV," she posted on X, formerly Twitter.
"We wish that his pontificate be guided by wisdom and strength, as he leads the Catholic community and inspires the world through his commitment to peace and dialogue."
May 08, 2025 at 05:47 PM EDT
Is Robert Prevost a Republican? What we know
The political views of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, whose birth name is Robert Prevost, have come into question following his election on Thursday.
Speculation grew over the new pope's beliefs after his papacy was announced around 7 p.m. in Rome, or 1 p.m. ET, on Thursday, about an hour after it became clear a new pope had been chosen.
Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk shared a post to X, formerly Twitter, saying that Leo, who lived in a Chicago suburb, was a "registered Republican." Illinois, however, does not register voters by political party; when they go to vote in a primary, they state which party's primary they would like to vote in, according to VoteSmart. Kirk posted screenshots appearing to show voter registration data for Leo, living in New Lenox, though that information could not be independently verified by Newsweek.
The data, which is not publicly available, suggested he voted in the Republican primaries in 2012, 2014 and 2016. It also suggests he did not vote in the 2016 or 2020 general elections but did so in 2024. Whom he voted for is not public information.
Newsweek was able to confirm a Robert Prevost, with the same birthday as the new pope, was registered to vote in New Lenox, but the rest of the data is not publicly available. Voter registration data did not show him with any partisan affiliation.
Read in full from Andrew Stanton on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 05:31 PM EDT
IN PICTURES: Catholics around the world celebrate new pope
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May 08, 2025 at 05:12 PM EDT
Clerical abuse survivor group ‘gravely concerned’ by lection of new pope
Survivors of sexual abuse by Catholic priests are calling on Pope Leo XIV to institute a zero-tolerance policy while demanding an investigation into his handling of prior misconduct allegations.
The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, which has 25,000 members worldwide, released a statement Thursday acknowledging the "gravity of the role" Cardinal Robert Prevost assumed as the first American pope in the Catholic Church's 2,000-year history.
"With the title comes a grave reckoning," the group, known as SNAP, said in a statement.
Hours earlier, prior to the 69-year-old Prevost being elected to lead roughly 1.4 billion Catholics around the world, SNAP released a 6-page open letter calling on the new pontiff to instill a "truly universal zero tolerance law for sexual abuse and cover-up" by clergy.
Read in full from Joshua Rhett Miller on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 04:52 PM EDT
Vladimir Putin sends message to Leo XIV
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered his "cordial congratulations" to the newly elected pope in a message published on the Kremlin's official website, expressing wishes for "success in fulfilling the high mission entrusted to you, along with good health and well-being."
"I am confident that the constructive dialogue and cooperation between Russia and the Vatican will continue to flourish, grounded in the shared Christian values that unite us," Putin said.
May 08, 2025 at 04:45 PM EDT
Pope Leo XIV sparks ‘insanely large’ payouts on small bets
The election of Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago as pope has caused some small bettors to bring in massive payouts.
"Given the unexpected choice, we have had some insanely large payouts from small trades," financial exchange market Kalshi's Jack Such told Newsweek.
Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, was not among the top contenders to replace the late Pope Francis, making his selection a relative surprise. According to Kalshi, this choice has caused many who gambled on the upcoming pope's selection to earn tens of thousands of dollars.
Read in full from Suzanne Blake on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 04:39 PM EDT
French President calls election of new pope ‘historic moment’
French President Emmanuel Macron has called the election of an American pope, a "historic moment."
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Macron offered a "message of fraternity" to Catholics in France and around the world.
"On this May 8th, may this new pontificate be one of peace and hope," he posted.
May 08, 2025 at 04:31 PM EDT
World leaders welcome Pope Leo XIV, first American pontiff
World leaders across continents extended messages of hope, unity and spiritual solidarity Thursday after Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected Pope Leo XIV, the first American to ascend to the papacy.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reflected on the continuity and challenge of Pope Leo's mission, extending "sincere best wishes" as he begins his pontificate. "In a time marked by conflict and unrest, his words from the Loggia of Blessings are a powerful call to peace, fraternity, and responsibility," she wrote on X.
Across Europe, leaders focused on unity, diplomacy, and global cooperation. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the election as "an opportunity to strengthen dialogue and the defense of human rights in a world that needs hope and unity," according to a message on X.
Read in full from Jesus Mesa on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 04:18 PM EDT
Trump says he’s spoken with new pope
Trump revealed this afternoon that he has already received a call from the newly elected pope.
When asked about a potential meeting, Trump confirmed that the pope's team had already reached out, adding, "They have already called. They have already spoken to us and we'll see what happens."
May 08, 2025 at 04:14 PM EDT
Knicks Fans have wild reaction to new Pope Leo XIV
New York fans have been celebrating the newly named Pope Leo XIV due to his surprising connection to the Knicks.
The American Pope graduated from Villanova University, which is known for producing NBA stars including three for the New York Knicks.
Point guard Jalen Brunson, shooting guard Josh Hart, and forward Mikal Bridges are all former Villanova Wildcats.
Many Knicks fans took to social media to celebrate, claiming this was set to be an ordianed season to be for the Knicks.
May 08, 2025 at 04:00 PM EDT
Orthodox patriarch welcomes new pope with hopes for unity
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew expressed warm congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on Thursday, calling his election a moment of "great expectations" for Christian unity.
Speaking to the Associated Press at an event in Athens, Bartholomew said he would attend the new pope's upcoming enthronement in Rome. The Orthodox leader voiced hope that their cooperation would continue the legacy he shared with Pope Francis, which included joint efforts on climate change, migration, and Easter unification talks.
"I hope that His Holiness Pope Leo XIV will be a dear brother and collaborator ... for unity of the whole Christian family and for the benefit of the whole of humankind," Bartholomew said.
May 08, 2025 at 03:56 PM EDT
Robert Prevost criticized JD Vance months before becoming pope
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Cardinal Robert Prevost, who was elected as the next pope on Thursday, shared an opinion article in February criticizing a religious comment made by Vice President JD Vance.
The National Catholic Reporter article shared by Prevost on X is entitled "JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn't ask us to rank our love for others." It focuses on a comment Vance made during a Fox News interview on January 29.
"There's this old school—and I think it's a very Christian concept, by the way—that you love your family and then you love your neighbor, and then you love your community, and then you love your fellow citizens and your own country, and then after that you can focus and prioritize the rest of the world," Vance said.
Read the full story by Jenna Sundel on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 03:44 PM EDT
Bush congratulates new Pope Leo XIV
Former U.S. President George W. Bush, along with his wife Laura, expressed their delight in congratulating former Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as pope.
In a statement, Bush called the moment "historic and hopeful" for Catholics in America and worldwide.
He also offered prayers for Pope Leo XIV, wishing him success in his leadership of the Catholic Church, serving the needy, and spreading God's love.
May 08, 2025 at 03:28 PM EDT
PHOTO: American flag in the Vatican
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May 08, 2025 at 03:13 PM EDT
Pope Leo XIV to hold first Mass, blessing, and media audience
Newly elected Pope Leo XIV is set to begin his official duties with a series of high-profile appearances, the Vatican confirmed Thursday.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said, per The Associated Press, the pope will celebrate Mass with cardinals on Friday at 11 a.m. in the Sistine Chapel. On Sunday, he will deliver his first noon blessing from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, a traditional moment of introduction to the faithful in St. Peter's Square.
Pope Leo XIV is also scheduled to meet with members of the media on Monday in the Vatican auditorium.
May 08, 2025 at 03:00 PM EDT
VP JD Vance congratulates first American pope after election
Vice President JD Vance offered congratulations Thursday to the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, the first American to lead the Catholic Church.
"Congratulations to Leo XIV, the first American Pope, on his election!" Vance posted on X. "I'm sure millions of American Catholics and other Christians will pray for his successful work leading the Church. May God bless him!"
May 08, 2025 at 02:54 PM EDT
Rubio says he looks forward to US ‘deepening relationship’ with Catholic Church
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has congratulated Pope Leo XIV on becoming the first American pope as he said he looked forward to the United States "deepening our enduring relationship" with the Catholic Church.
Rubio, a Catholic, said in an official State Department release, "This is a moment of profound significance for the Catholic Church, offering renewed hope and continuity amid the 2025 Jubilee Year to over a billion faithful worldwide.
"The United States looks forward to deepening our enduring relationship with the Holy See with the first American pontiff," he added.
May 08, 2025 at 02:41 PM EDT
‘Surprised and happy,’ says Trump upon learning an American was named pope
President Donald Trump told reporters on Thursday he had been surprised by the news that an American cardinal had been elected as the new pope.
"We're a little bit surprised and we're happy," Trump said, before adding that it was a great honor for the United States.
"What greater honor can there be?"
May 08, 2025 at 02:38 PM EDT
Most common papal names revealed
Leo is in the top most popular names for popes, having been chosen 13 times before Cardinal Robert Prevost chose it for his papal name.
The most common papal names are:
- John: 23 times
- Gregory: 16 times
- Benedict: 16 times
- Clement: 14 times
- Leo: 14 times
- Innocent: 13 times
- Pius: 12 times
May 08, 2025 at 02:35 PM EDT
Why did Cardinal Prevost choose the papal name Leo?
The practice of choosing a papal name is a centuries-old ritual that reflects the new pope's vision and direction for the church.
Through showing their admiration for previous pontiffs, a pope is able to signal what priorities they align with, and whether that means continuity for the Church's doctrine, or a new direction.
Since the practice began in 955 with Pope John XII, according to Vatican News, certain names have emerged as favorites. They include John, a biblical name with pastoral connotations that has been chosen 23 times, and Gregory, chosen 16 times, often to signal support for Gregory I, who strengthened papal authority.
The name Leo has been chosen 13 times before today with the last, Pope Leo XIII, leading the church between 1878 and 1903.
It is connected with popes tied with doctrinal authority and social teaching.
"Linking to the names of previous popes who weathered crises, inspired reform, or were incredibly popular can often, although not always, play a role in the choosing of a name," according to Liam Temple, assistant professor in the history of Catholicism at the Centre for Catholic Studies at Durham University, who spoke to CNN.
May 08, 2025 at 02:20 PM EDT
Pope Leo pays tribute to his predecessor in St Peter’s Square address
Leo paid tribute on Thursday to his predecessor, Francis, in his first remarks as the 267th pope.
He also emphasized values like inclusivity and bridging divides, saying: "We have to seek together to be a missionary church, a church that builds bridges and dialogue, always ready to accept, like this great piazza, with its arms, we have to show our charity, presence and dialogue with love."
An American in the crowd, identified as Donna, expressed joy at Leo's selection, telling CNN it was "amazing" that he's the first American pope.
"I'm just—I'm shocked and I'm thrilled and I just hope that he continues to do the wonderful work that Pope Francis did and just makes us all unified in the end," she told CNN.
May 08, 2025 at 02:13 PM EDT
What has Robert Prevost said about immigration?
Leo's experience as a bishop in Peru had him work with immigrants. According to The New York Times, he was praised in the country for efforts to support Venezuelan immigrants.
Newsweek could not confirm details of Leo's position on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. However, Leo was a long-standing ally of Francis, who repeatedly called for peace.
Leo's papacy begins amid previous criticism.
As reported by The Pillar, abuse survivors have raised concerns about his past handling of misconduct allegations. Leo has not commented publicly on the issue since assuming his Vatican role.
His supporters argue that his experience and international experience mark a return to pastoral leadership.
The world's Catholics now turn to Leo for leadership at a pivotal time for the Church and for the faithful around the globe.
May 08, 2025 at 02:01 PM EDT
This was a particularly unique conclave in the church’s history, says Catholic expert
Mary Hallan FioRito, senior fellow at The Catholic Association, told Newsweek that this was a particularly unique conclave in church history due cardinals in areas of the world never before being represented, from places like Burma, Tongo and Cape Verde.
"As they have been meeting here in Rome since the death of Pope Francis, Cardinals from Europe, Africa, Oceania, North and South America and Asia, have been discussing the needs of the people they serve, and are discerning what qualities would be most important in the next pope," FioRito said.
"In one sense, every papacy builds upon its predecessors, but each newly elected pope brings his own distinctive personality to the job."
May 08, 2025 at 01:51 PM EDT
What has Robert Prevost said about LGBTQ+ issues?
Francis was known for a progressive stance on LGBTQ+ issues.
The New York Times reported that in 2012, Leo indicated that pop culture created "sympathy for beliefs and practices that are at odds with the gospel." In the speech to bishops, he referenced the "homosexual lifestyle" and "alternative families comprised of same-sex partners and their adopted children."
May 08, 2025 at 01:47 PM EDT
Trump celebrates first American pope, congratulates Pope Leo XIV
President Donald Trump has celebrated the naming of the first American pope in the history of the Catholic Church.
In a post on his Truth Social social media platform, Trump congratulated Pope Leo XIV and said he was looking forward to meeting him.
"Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope," he posted.
"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!"
May 08, 2025 at 01:42 PM EDT
Where Is Robert Prevost from?
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Leo was born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago, where he was part of St. Mary of the Assumption parish near Dolton, Illinois, according to a Chicago Sun-Times report. His Midwestern roots, combined with decades spent abroad, have made him a figure who bridges cultural and geographic divides in the global Church.
"It was pretty apparent back then that was going to be his route," St. Mary's graduate John Doughney told the Chicago Sun-Times. "Some of us had considered it. It was kind of a fantasy for most young men. For him, I think it was true calling."
May 08, 2025 at 01:40 PM EDT
Who Is Robert Prevost? The newly announced Pope Leo XIV
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected pope on Thursday, becoming the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
He has chosen the papal title of Pope Leo XIV.
The 69-year-old cardinal, who spent much of his clerical life abroad in Peru, emerged as a candidate during a closely watched conclave that followed the death of Pope Francis.
Leo, who is fluent in Spanish and Italian, was named in the historical moment as there has been growing division within the Catholic hierarchy, with some cardinals split over whether to continue the more inclusive direction charted by Francis or return to stricter doctrinal enforcement.
Leo represents the "dignified middle of the road," the Rev. Michele Falcone, a priest in the Order of St. Augustine, told The New York Times on May 2.
Ordained in 1982, Leo received a doctorate in canon law in Rome at the Pontifical College of St. Thomas Aquinas. He served for two decades in Peru, where he served as Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023, and became a naturalized citizen. Prior to that, he served at the Order of St. Augustine, long before being appointed by Francis in 2023 to head the Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful Vatican office that oversees episcopal appointments worldwide, per the Associated Press.
Leo has often emphasized service. In an interview with the Vatican's official news site, he said last year: "The bishop is not supposed to be a little prince sitting in his kingdom," but is "called authentically to be humble, to be close to the people he serves, to walk with them, to suffer with them, according to The New York Times.
Daniel Rober, associate professor and chair of Catholic studies at Sacred Heart University in Connecticut, told Newsweek that Leo may have been viewed as a more appealing alternative to Cardinal Pietro Parolin due to administrative strengths and perhaps being "less kind of tainted by the Vatican bureaucracy."
That could also be viewed negatively by a lot of cardinals, especially from outside of Italy and Europe, he added.
Read in full from Nick Mordowanec on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 01:30 PM EDT
IN PICTURES: Newly elected Pope Leo XIV waves at crowd from Vatican balcony
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May 08, 2025 at 01:28 PM EDT
Cardinals take to the Vatican balcony to announce Pope Leo XIV
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May 08, 2025 at 01:24 PM EDT
American missionary elected new pope, Pope Leo XIV
Cardinal Robert Prevost, an American missionary, has been elected the first American pope in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church.
Prevost, 69, took the name Leo XIV.
May 08, 2025 at 01:15 PM EDT
Who is Cardinal Pietro Parolin ? A favorite for next pope
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Cardinal Pietro Parolin is an Italian prelate and one of the highest-ranking officials in the Roman Catholic Church.
Parolin, 70, worked closely with Pope Francis and served as his cardinal secretary of state. He was also among the senior church officials who met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
Parolin is generally seen as a moderate and is not quite as progressive as Francis. He and the former Pope's views on gay relationships in particular diverged, with Parolin describing Ireland's vote to legalize same-sex marriages in 2015 as a "defeat for humanity."
Born in 1955 in Schiavon, Italy, he was ordained a priest in 1980 and entered the Vatican's diplomatic service soon after. Over the years, he served in various posts, including in Nigeria and Mexico, gaining extensive experience in international diplomacy. In 2013, Pope Francis appointed him as the Vatican's Secretary of State—a role often described as akin to a prime minister—making him the Pope's chief advisor and the top diplomat of the Holy See.
In his role as Secretary of State, Parolin manages the internal workings of the Vatican Curia and directs the Holy See's foreign relations. He has played a central role in navigating delicate issues, such as the Vatican's controversial agreement with China over the appointment of bishops. He is also actively involved in peace negotiations, humanitarian efforts, and interfaith dialogue, reflecting Pope Francis' global pastoral priorities. Parolin was made a cardinal in 2014 and is considered a key figure in shaping Vatican policy and diplomacy.
Public opinion on Parolin is generally respectful, viewing him as a skilled and pragmatic diplomat. Supporters praise his calm demeanor, intellectual rigor, and ability to navigate complex political terrain, often describing him as a stabilizing force in the Vatican. However, critics—particularly those skeptical of the Vatican's approach to China—question the long-term implications of some of his diplomatic strategies, arguing they may compromise religious freedom. Despite such critiques, he remains a trusted and influential voice within the global Church.
May 08, 2025 at 01:10 PM EDT
Why ravioli was banned from papal conclave
While the process of choosing a pope is secretive, one thing is certain: Cardinals have to eat.
Exactly what they eat, like so much else about the centuries-old procedure, is a mystery. However, Newsweek has gathered what clues are out there, including some surprising bans.
By the year 1550, ravioli, whole chickens and pies were some of the foods banned from being eaten in a conclave, as they were seen as risks to the secrecy that remains such a major part of the procedure. Officials were concerned that messages, which might sway the voting, could be concealed inside the stuffed pasta or cavity of a bird.
A report of the ban comes from one of the only existing accounts of the food served in a conclave, which was written by Bartolomeo Scappi, a 16th-century chef to Popes Pius IV and Pius V.
Read in full from Jordan King on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 01:08 PM EDT
OPINION: The world must embrace Pope Francis’ moral clarity
This year marks 110 years since the 1915 genocide of the Armenians, Assyrians/Syriacs/Chaldeans, Yazidis, Greeks, and Maronites of the Ottoman Empire. Every April 24, as an Armenian Catholic and descendant of survivors, I mark the day by commemorating the 1.5 million Armenians who perished—and all communities harmed in 1915. To commemorate one group demands commemorating all. Yet, political fears, moral cowardice, and what Pope Francis called, the "very ugly disease" of "globalization of indifference," have reduced remembrance to political weaponization and misinformation.
Read the full opinion piece by Zovighian Public Office founder Lynn Zovighian on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 01:06 PM EDT
Trump reacts to new pope
President Donald Trump has responded to the news that a new Pope of the Catholic Church has been elected.
Speaking at an event at the White House on Thursday, Trump said he had seen the live footage of white smoke out billowing out of the Vatican chimney, which signals the college of cardinals has chosen aa new pontiff.
"I saw the smoke, but I haven't seen the pope," Trump told reporters in the White House East Room.
May 08, 2025 at 01:01 PM EDT
Who is Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle? A favorite for next pope
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Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle has emerged as one of the two favorites to become the next pope, but he faces accusations of not doing enough to deal with claims of child sex abuse in the church.
However, many see him as the natural successor to Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday.
Francis passed at the age of 88, on April 21, after 12 years as pope, and the world is now watching to see who will take his place as the head of the Catholic Church.
With around 1.4 billion followers, according to the Vatican's Central Office for Church Statistics' 2023, the Catholic church is the biggest in the world, giving the pope significant influence.
Tagle, 67, along with Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, is one of two favorites, according to several bookmakers, including the UK's William Hill.
At one point on Friday, Tagle overtook Parolin, currently the Vatican's Secretary of State, William Hill making him favorite at 9/4 (30.8 percent) and Parolin at 5/2 (28.6 percent).
But, as of Monday, Parolin was back on top at 9/4 (30.8 percent), but Tagle was right behind him with 3/1 (25.0 percent).
Read the full profile by Jordan King on Newsweek.
May 08, 2025 at 12:52 PM EDT
Trump comments on Vatican smoke, defends AI image tweet
Trump remarked on the papal conclave Wednesday, noting the appearance of white smoke from the Vatican chimney during a White House event signaling a new pope had been chosen.
"I saw the smoke, but I haven't seen the pope," Trump said to reporters in the East Room, acknowledging the news from Rome.
The comment came days after the White House's official account posted an AI-generated image of Trump dressed in papal robes, a move that sparked criticism from some online. The image, posted ahead of the conclave, was seen by some as disrespectful or confusing amid the sacred process to elect a new pope.
May 08, 2025 at 12:47 PM EDT
IN PICTURES: Vatican Swiss guards march and military bands play after white smoke is seen
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May 08, 2025 at 12:42 PM EDT
WATCH: New pope elected, white smoke billows from Vatican chimney
May 08, 2025 at 12:39 PM EDT
Was this the shortest conclave to elect a Pope?
Two days is certainly a speedy conclave to elect the new pope but is by no means the quickest.
The cardinals took a similar time to elect Pope Francis, who was chosen in March 2013 after only five ballots across two days. His election marked the first time a Jesuit had become pope and the first time the position went to a Latin American.
The shortest papal conclave on record took place in October 1503 and lasted only a few hours. Following the death of Pope Pius III, whose reign lasted just 13 days, the cardinals reconvened and quickly elected Cardinal Giuliano della Rovere.
May 08, 2025 at 12:36 PM EDT
New pope expected to appear soon after white smoke
With white smoke rising above the Sistine Chapel, signaling that a new pope has been elected, attention now turns to the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. Traditionally, the new pontiff appears within 30 to 60 minutes.
A senior cardinal will first announce the chosen name of the new pope before he steps forward to deliver his first public words and offer a prayer to the crowd.
His formal inauguration will follow in the coming days, typically held in St. Peter's Square, as it was for the last two popes.
May 08, 2025 at 12:28 PM EDT
Leading candidates to succeed Pope Francis
Here are the frontrunners to succeed Pope Francis:
- Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
- Pietro Parolin (Italy)
- Peter Turkson (Ghana)
- Peter Erdő (Hungary)
- Angelo Scola (Italy)
The name of the new pope has yet to be announced.
May 08, 2025 at 12:28 PM EDT
What happens next?
The white smoke has been billowing over the Sistine Chapel and bells rang out over the square.
But there are still a few more steps until the new pope is revealed.
There will be an official proclamation of "Habemus Papam!" ("We have a pope!"), before the new pontiff makes their first public appearance on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica where he delivers the Urbi et Orbi blessing.
May 08, 2025 at 12:25 PM EDT
What the white smoke means
During a papal conclave, smoke signals from the Sistine Chapel alert the world to the status of the vote. After each round of voting, ballots are burned and the smoke that rises indicates whether a decision has been reached.
Black smoke means the cardinals remain divided. White smoke signals that a new pope has been chosen.
Since 2005, the Vatican has also rung the bells of St. Peter's Basilica to confirm the election and avoid confusion over the smoke's color.
May 08, 2025 at 12:23 PM EDT
‘Habemus papam’ explained
When a new pope is elected, a senior cardinal appears on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to announce the news with the Latin phrase "Habemus papam," meaning "We have a pope."
The cardinal then shares the pope's birth name and the papal name he has chosen.
Shortly after, the newly elected pope steps out, wearing a white cassock, and offers his first blessing to the crowd assembled in St. Peter's Square.
The moment marks the formal introduction of the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church to the world.
May 08, 2025 at 12:22 PM EDT
Cheers erupt from St. Peter’s Square as white smoke billows
Cheers erupted from the crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square as the traditional sign of a successful vote filled the sky.
The identity of the new pope will soon be revealed in the time-honored ceremony from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, when a senior cardinal proclaims "Habemus papam!"—Latin for "We have a pope!"
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