Today is Day 2 of Conclave and white smoke finally billowed out from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel to announce that the 133 Cardinal electors have selected the 26th successor to St. Peter – Cardinal Robert Prevost from the United States of America, whose chosen papal name is Pope Leo XIV.

The first American pope in history, Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost, was born in Chicago, Illinois – United States of America, on September 14, 1955, to Louis Marius Prevost, of French and Italian descent, and Mildred Martínez, of Spanish descent.

He entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1981.

Education-wise, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Villanova), a Master of Divinity degree (Catholic Theological Union), a licentiate and doctorate in canon law (the Angelicum)

He has performed extensive missionary work in Peru, in roles including (but not limited to): seminary professor, Judicial vicar, Apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Vice president of the Peruvian episcopal conference, and most recently as the head of the Church’s Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.

As prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, he oversaw the nomination of bishops worldwide His role was to ensure that candidates were well formed in doctrine, pastoral care, and fidelity to the Church’s teachings He was also a member of several other dicasteries, including those for Evangelization, the Doctrine of the Faith, Clergy, and Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life

He was created a cardinal on September 30, 2023 He called it “a mission of love with Christ, our Savior,” with a responsibility to give his life in service to the Church He also highlighted the significance of the red vestments of a cardinal, symbolizing the blood of martyrs

And then today— May 8, 2025— after four ballots, the cardinals elected him Pope. He chose the name Leo XIV. He stepped onto the balcony with peace in his eyes.

Pope Leo XIV is the first American pope— but he’s also deeply Peruvian. Two citizenships, two cultures, and now one cross. He embodies the Catholic faith: universal and deeply local.

He speaks seven languages fluently, and not just for show. He uses them to break down barriers and make people feel seen, no matter where they come from.

He is deeply Marian. His devotion to Our Lady is striking. He begins every day with the Rosary and ends it before an image of Mary he’s carried since seminary.

He chose the name “Leo” for a reason. He chose “Leo” in honor of St. Leo the Great, who defended truth with boldness and built bridges in times of division. A clear signal, I think, of what this new pontificate might look like.

With an IQ of 145 , speaking 7 languages, degrees in mathematics & theology, and known for humility and intellectual capabilities, he isn’t just a Pope; he is one of the smartest men alive!

We pray for Pope Leo XIV. That he may teach with the voice of the Good Shepherd. That he may govern with a servant’s heart. That he may walk with the People of God toward holiness.

May Pope Leo XIV be as ever faithful to Holy Mother Church and Tradition as his venerable predecessor, Leo XIII.

Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, and St. Joseph, patron and protector of the Church, pray for His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, for us and for the Church.