The new Pope has greeted huge crowds in St. Peter’s Square, just moments after his election.
Leo XIV walked on to the balcony overlooking the famous square in Rome to cheers and applause as evening fell on May 8 2025.
Just under an hour earlier, white smoke had appeared from the chimney on the loggia above St. Peter’s signalling that the cardinals in conclave had chosen a new Pontiff.
There was surprise in the square as the famous Habemus Papam message was read by the protodeacon, Cardinal Dominique Mamberti. The new Pope, born Robert Francis Prevost, hadn’t been spoken of as a favourite contender for the role. However, he was elected quickly, named as Pope on the fourth vote, just a day after the conclave had begun.
Following the announcement, the new Pope appeared to speak to the crowds. His first words as Pontiff were ”peace be with you all”.
Pope Leo, who comes from Chicago originally, spoke to the crowds in Spanish and Italian. He spent many years as a bishop in Peru.
He chose to wear the traditional red stole and mozzetta for his first appearance as Pope.
Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis who died on April 21 2025.
