CHICAGO – The city is buzzing with excitement as Cardinal Robert Prevost, a native of Chicago, was elected as the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. With the white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel signaling the decision, Cardinal Prevost became the first American pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV, following the passing of Pope Francis last month.

At The Frances Xavier Warde School in Chicago, the atmosphere was electric as students crowded around TV screens to watch the historic announcement. The moment Cardinal Prevost’s face appeared on the screen, cheers erupted through the hallways. Children jumped to their feet, pumping their fists in the air.

“We’re beyond excited. The kids can’t believe a Chicagoan is now their pope,” said Mary Perrotti, director of advancement at the school. “They were in awe.”

Pope Leo XIV, 69, was born in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood in 1955 and raised in suburban Dolton. He went on to study theology at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago in Hyde Park, later serving as a teacher and spiritual leader in local schools, including St. Rita High School. Before being elected pope, Prevost had a successful ministry in Peru.

A Deep Connection to Chicago’s Catholic Community

For Chicagoans, the announcement of Prevost’s election is a moment of immense pride. Barbara Reid, president of the Catholic Theological Union, expressed the deep joy felt by many in the city. “We are overjoyed that someone who is beloved and known to us is now the beloved leader of the whole church,” she said.

Longtime friends and former classmates recall Prevost as a deeply compassionate and driven individual. John Doughney, a fellow graduate of St. Mary’s Grade School, said that even as a young boy, it was clear that Prevost was destined for the priesthood. “He was a friend to everyone,” Doughney shared. “We knew from an early age that this was his calling.”

A Hometown Celebrates

As the news of Prevost’s election spread, Chicagoans gathered in churches to pray, while social media exploded with excitement. At Holy Name Cathedral, about two dozen people gathered to reflect and celebrate the historic occasion. Father Gregory Sakowicz, the cathedral’s rector, described the moment as a “profound” event. “When the new pope was announced, the sun came out,” he said, adding, “I was happily shocked.”

In the midst of the joy, there were plenty of lighthearted moments as Chicagoans embraced their newfound connection to the Vatican. Social media was filled with memes celebrating Chicago’s unique culture—from deep-dish pizza to the city’s famous Malört liqueur. Fans jokingly debated whether the new pope was a Chicago White Sox or Cubs fan, with Father Sakowicz sharing a chuckle after hearing Pope Leo XIV is, in fact, a Sox fan.

A Symbol of Social Justice and Compassion

For many, the election of Pope Leo XIV isn’t just a source of pride but also a symbol of Chicago’s commitment to social justice. Raul Raymundo, a community leader and co-founder of the Resurrection Project, said he hopes the new pope will continue Pope Francis’ legacy of compassion, particularly in welcoming immigrants. “There’s tears of joy, hope, and motivation to rise to this moment,” Raymundo shared.

Chicago’s Love for Its New Pope

In true Chicago fashion, even T-shirt companies jumped on the bandwagon, offering “Da Pope” shirts in Bears-themed colors. Chicagoans eagerly swapped videos of the pope’s first appearance in Vatican City, overlaying the iconic Chicago Bulls intro music for extra flair. Locally, there were even jokes about replacing communion wafers with tavern-style pizza and sending Portillo’s Italian beef to the Vatican.

For Chicagoans, Pope Leo XIV represents more than just a religious leader. He embodies the city’s spirit—one of social justice, compassion, and community care. As Mary Perrotti from The Frances Xavier Warde School put it, “His upbringing in Chicago informs his ministry and compassion. Now, he has the chance to give the world a sense of who we are as a city.”

A Moment of Pride and Hope for All

As Chicago celebrates this extraordinary moment, it’s clear that Pope Leo XIV’s rise to the papacy holds deep meaning for the city. For Catholics and non-Catholics alike, this moment represents a new chapter in history—a hometown son who will lead the world’s Catholic community with justice and compassion.

Source: AP News – Catholic Chicagoans celebrate as native son Pope Leo XIV becomes first American pope

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For the first time in history, an American has been elected to lead the Roman Catholic Church. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago, Illinois, has officially been named the 267th pope and will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.

A Momentous Decision

White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney on the second day of the conclave, signaling the decision had been made. Pope Leo XIV will soon make his first public appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, offering his inaugural blessing as the new spiritual leader of over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.

His election came swiftly—mirroring the pace of recent conclaves—which suggests he quickly earned the trust and support of his fellow cardinals.

A Global Church, A Global Leader

Pope Leo XIV, 69, brings decades of international experience to the papacy. Though born and raised in the U.S., he spent much of his religious life in Peru, serving in missionary roles and eventually becoming the bishop of Chiclayo, where he led from 2014 to 2023.

Before that, he led the Augustinian order globally as its prior general, giving him deep experience managing diverse communities across the world.

Most recently, he headed the Vatican’s powerful Dicastery for Bishops, the office responsible for selecting bishops around the globe. In this role, he also served as president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, helping shape the leadership of the Catholic Church throughout the region.

A Calm, Balanced Vision

Vatican analysts describe Pope Leo XIV as a leader with both humility and strength—someone who brings people together without imposing his will.

“He’s calm, even-handed, and focused on what needs to be done,” said CNN’s Vatican analyst Elise Allen. “But he doesn’t push his vision with an iron fist. He’s a consensus builder.”

Allen also emphasized his global perspective, which may have helped overcome concerns about selecting a U.S. pope—something historically avoided due to America’s geopolitical influence. “He’s from the West, but his deep roots in South America make him an international figure in every sense.”

A Lifelong Missionary

Pope Leo XIV has never strayed far from his missionary roots. Even in his latest Vatican roles, he referred to himself as a missionary, committed to spreading the Gospel wherever he’s called to serve.

His academic background includes a mathematics degree from Villanova University, theological training at Catholic Theological Union of Chicago, and canon law studies in Rome at the Pontifical Saint Thomas Aquinas University. He was ordained in 1982 and spent years teaching canon law at a seminary in Trujillo, Peru.

Advocating for Reform and Inclusion

During his time at the Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Leo XIV welcomed the contributions of women who had joined the Vatican office, saying their involvement was “genuine and meaningful” in decision-making processes.

He also acknowledged ongoing challenges in confronting clerical abuse:

“There are places where good work has already been done… but there is still much to learn.”

What’s Next

As bells ring in St. Peter’s Square and the crowd eagerly awaits his first blessing, the world watches to see how Pope Leo XIV will shape the future of the Church. With a deep commitment to service, experience across continents, and a reputation for thoughtful leadership, his papacy begins with a spirit of hope and unity.

This is a developing story. More updates to follow.

Source: CNN – Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost elected as new leader of Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV

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The anticipation was high in St. Peter’s Square on May 7, 2025, as thousands gathered to witness the first major moment in the papal conclave. But as the clock ticked past 9:00 PM, the iconic black smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, signaling that the first ballot had concluded—and no Pope had been elected.

A Long Wait for the Crowd

Roughly 45,000 people had gathered in St. Peter’s Square, eagerly awaiting the results of the first vote. While many expected an announcement shortly after 7:00 PM, the crowd had to endure an extra two hours of suspense before the smoke rose, indicating the first round of voting had ended without a decision.

A Global Moment of Prayer

Among the many faithful in the square was Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania. He shared his thoughts with Vatican News, emphasizing the universal role of prayer during the conclave: “Our role here is to pray and to join with other Christians, other Catholics, to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the whole process.”

Regardless of the geographical origin of the new Pope, Deacon Nkoronko stressed, “We need a holy Pope. We need a Pope who will guide the Church and will be the pastor of the Church.”

Looking Ahead

The conclave’s journey is just beginning, with cardinals set to continue the process of electing the 267th Pope. As they deliberate, the world watches and prays for the guidance of the Holy Spirit to choose a new leader for the Catholic Church.

Stay tuned for updates as the conclave continues, with hopes high for the Church’s next chapter.

Source: Vatican News – Black smoke signals end of first day of conclave

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Amid ongoing controversy, Cardinal Angelo Becciu has chosen not to participate in the upcoming conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor. This decision comes after a Vatican court convicted Becciu of embezzlement in 2023.

In a statement released on the matter, Becciu made it clear that he remains firm in his belief of innocence. He wrote, “I remain convinced of my innocence, and I will continue to serve with fidelity and love, as well as contribute to the communion and serenity of the conclave.”

Despite this conviction, Becciu emphasized his commitment to Pope Francis’ wishes. He added, “I have decided to obey as I have always done Pope Francis’ will not to enter the conclave while remaining convinced of my innocence. I obey (Pope) Francis, I will not enter the conclave for the good of the Church.”

This move comes as part of an ongoing series of controversies surrounding the cardinal, who has been at the center of multiple legal and church-related scandals. His absence at the conclave will likely spark further debate about his future role within the Vatican.

Source: Euro News – Controversial Cardinal Becciu won’t join conclave to choose Pope Francis’ successor

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VATICAN CITY (AP) — The election of a new pope, known as a conclave, is an ancient and highly secretive process. The term “conclave” comes from the Italian phrase con clave, meaning “with a key,” highlighting the isolation of cardinals as they seclude themselves until a new pope is chosen. Here’s everything you need to know about how this centuries-old tradition works.

How Does the Conclave Work?

The conclave begins on May 7, starting with a morning Mass led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals. Afterward, the cardinals process into the Sistine Chapel, where they take an oath of secrecy and pledge to choose a new pope. Once the Extra Omnes—Latin for “all out”—is spoken, all non-cardinals are asked to leave, and the voting process begins.

The first vote takes place that afternoon, with cardinals seeking a two-thirds majority. If no candidate emerges victorious, voting resumes the next day. The cardinals can cast up to two votes each morning and two in the afternoon until they reach a decision.

Who Participates in the Conclave?

Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. While the official limit for electors is 120, there are currently 135 cardinals eligible to participate in the election. Cardinals over 80 cannot vote but can still take part in pre-conclave discussions, known as general congregations, where they share insights about church matters. These meetings can influence the election, as seen in 2013 when then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s speech about reaching out to the marginalized helped set the stage for his papacy.

What’s New in This Conclave?

While many of the conclave’s rules remain unchanged from St. John Paul II’s 1996 reforms, some adjustments have been made over the years. Pope Benedict XVI, for example, clarified that a two-thirds majority would always be required to elect a pope—eliminating the possibility of a simple majority in cases of deadlock. This ensures that no candidate can be pushed through by a slim majority.

If the conclave stretches beyond the expected duration, the two leading candidates enter a runoff vote. The election still requires a two-thirds majority, and neither of the top two contenders may cast a ballot in the final round.

Who Can Be Elected Pope?

Technically, any baptized Catholic male is eligible to be pope. However, since 1378, only cardinals have been selected. Even cardinals over the age of 80 can be elected pope, though they won’t participate in the voting process.

Why Are Women Excluded?

The ban on women participating in the conclave stems from the Catholic Church’s teaching that only men can be ordained as priests. This doctrine is rooted in the belief that Jesus Christ chose only male apostles, a decision considered divinely inspired and immutable. As a result, only male cardinals can vote to elect the pope.

Is the Voting Process Secret?

Yes, the conclave is shrouded in secrecy. In fact, the oath of secrecy has been reinforced under Pope Benedict XVI. Anyone who discloses details from the conclave faces automatic excommunication. Liturgical assistants and secretaries also swear an oath, agreeing to maintain absolute confidentiality and avoid recording devices during the proceedings.

How Do We Know When a New Pope Is Chosen?

After each vote, the ballots are burned in a cylindrical stove. If no decision is made, black smoke emerges from the Sistine Chapel chimney. When a pope has been elected and accepts the position, white smoke signals the decision to the world. To ensure there’s no confusion, chemical cartridges are added to the fire—black smoke is produced with a mixture of potassium perchlorate and sulfur, while white smoke comes from a blend of potassium chlorate and lactose.

Once the new pope is selected, bells in St. Peter’s Square ring out, confirming the election. The new pope is then introduced to the faithful with the iconic words, Habemus Papam! (“We have a pope!”) and reveals his chosen papal name. From the loggia overlooking the square, the pope gives his first blessing to the crowd below.

Conclusion

The conclave is one of the most closely watched events in the Catholic Church, and while the process remains steeped in tradition and secrecy, the ultimate goal is clear: to choose a leader who will guide the Church through the challenges of the modern world.

Source: AP News – What is a conclave? What to know about the secretive process to elect the next pope

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VATICAN CITY — Journalists packed the gates of Vatican City Monday, eager for any clues as Catholic cardinals gathered for informal talks ahead of the conclave to elect the next pope. A formal date for the conclave could be set as early as this week.

In a chaotic scene, reporters shouted questions at the arriving cardinals — pressing them about unity, possible divisions, and when voting would begin. One satirical Italian TV reporter even grilled cardinals about whether a controversial, convicted cleric would be allowed to cast a vote.

“There is hope for unity,” said Argentine Cardinal Ángel Sixto Rossi, archbishop of Cordoba, who was elevated to cardinal just last year by Pope Francis.

Many cardinals voiced a desire to continue Francis’ pastoral focus on marginalized communities and a church against war. However, conservative factions are hoping for a return to traditional doctrines championed by Pope John Paul II and Benedict XVI — with less emphasis on social justice, outreach to women, and LGBTQ+ issues.

British Cardinal Vincent Nichols, archbishop of Westminster, emphasized the importance of unity, brushing off talk of major divisions.
“The role of the pope is to hold us together — that’s a grace from God,” Nichols said.

Venezuelan Cardinal Baltazar Enrique Porras Cardozo predicted the conclave could wrap up quickly once underway, suggesting a new pope could be chosen in just two or three days.

This conclave will bring together a College of Cardinals heavily shaped by Francis himself. Of the 135 cardinals eligible to vote, 108 were appointed by him — many from outside Europe. However, many of these cardinals don’t know each other well, adding an element of unpredictability to the process.

“We’ve got all week,” said Nichols, noting the time needed for cardinals to build consensus.

Only cardinals under 80 years old can vote. Some uncertainty remains about final participation, as one Spanish cardinal has already bowed out for health reasons.

One major question hovers over Cardinal Angelo Becciu, a former Vatican powerbroker convicted of financial crimes last year. Officially listed as a “non-elector,” Becciu insists he still has the right to vote, sparking debates among canon lawyers.

While many of Francis’ appointees will cast ballots, it doesn’t guarantee they’ll choose a pope in his image.

Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi — seen by some as a frontrunner — was swarmed by journalists as he entered the Vatican, navigating the media scrum with humor but offering no hints about the proceedings.

Cardinals from Africa, Asia, and Latin America are expected to be influential in the decision.

Nigerian Cardinal John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan, although too old to vote, dismissed rumors of political alliances among African cardinals.
“We’re not here for a political rally. We’re here to get a pope,” he said.

African cardinals made headlines last year for their unified resistance to Francis’ outreach to LGBTQ+ Catholics — a stance that could influence the election against progressive candidates.

Meanwhile, voices from Asia and Latin America also stressed unity. Indian Cardinal Anthony Poola, one of four Indian electors, said he felt positive but realistic:
“Anything could happen,” Poola said.

Rossi, the Argentine cardinal, hopes the next pope will carry forward Francis’ message of mercy, charity, and faith. Asked how he felt about his first conclave, he laughed and said simply:
“Afraid.”

Source: AP News – Journalists swarm cardinals at the Vatican gates as they meet to plan a conclave

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A Vatican showdown is brewing as Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, who was convicted of financial crimes by the Vatican, insists that he should be allowed to participate in the upcoming conclave to elect a new pope. Despite being listed as a “non-elector,” Becciu, who once held immense power within the Vatican, argues that there was no explicit decision to exclude him.

Becciu, a former high-ranking Vatican official, was removed from his influential position by Pope Francis in 2020, following his involvement in a financial scandal that rocked the Holy See. The Sardinian cardinal, who served as the Vatican’s chief of staff—or “sostituto” in the Secretariat of State—had significant sway in church matters. He later took on a role overseeing the Vatican’s saint-making department before his legal troubles began.

In 2023, Becciu was convicted of embezzlement and fraud, making him the first cardinal in history to be convicted by the Vatican’s criminal court. He was sentenced to five and a half years in prison. However, Becciu has maintained his innocence and has launched an appeal, which is still under consideration. While the appeal is ongoing, Becciu has been allowed to stay in a Vatican apartment.

Despite being stripped of his “rights and privileges” by Pope Francis, Becciu has never been formally removed from the College of Cardinals. The Vatican’s official stance lists him as a “non-elector,” meaning he is not currently eligible to vote in the papal election. However, Becciu disputes this, telling a Sardinian newspaper, “There was no explicit will to exclude me from the conclave, nor a request for my explicit renunciation in writing.”

The decision on Becciu’s participation in the conclave is now set to be made by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, along with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who will oversee the conclave proceedings in the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican is grappling with this issue as the election process for the new pope approaches.

The investigation that led to Becciu’s conviction centered on the Vatican’s failed investment in a London property, which caused the church to lose millions of dollars. During his papacy, Pope Francis took decisive steps to address financial corruption within the Vatican, even enacting new laws to ensure that cardinals like Becciu could be judged by a Vatican tribunal.

While Becciu lost his privileges as a cardinal, he remains a member of the College of Cardinals and is still eligible to take part in pre-conclave discussions. Only cardinals under the age of 80 can vote in the papal election, and at 76, Becciu meets the age requirement.

As the Vatican prepares for the conclave, this unresolved issue with Becciu adds yet another layer of complexity to the already tense and highly anticipated process of choosing the next pope.

Source: CNN –

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