![\"Pope](\"https:\/\/cdn-main.newsner.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/05\/09113737\/popeleo-664x350.jpg\")
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White smoke rose above the Vatican Thursday evening as Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was elected the first American pope, taking the name Leo XIV \u2014 the first Leo in over a century.<\/strong><\/p>\n Thousands cheered as Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter\u2019s Basilica. In his first speech, he offered a message of peace, drawing inspiration from the risen Christ and his predecessor, Pope Francis. He thanked his fellow cardinals and sent a special greeting to the Peruvian diocese of Chiclayo, where he had served.<\/p>\n Born in Chicago, Prevost felt called to the priesthood from a young age and joined the Augustinians. He later served in Peru and held various leadership roles in the Vatican, including overseeing bishop appointments.<\/p>\n Leo XIV has supported social reforms and environmental action, echoing Pope Francis\u2019 legacy. He promotes inclusivity, endorses blessings for same-sex couples, and advocates cultural sensitivity in church decisions.<\/p>\n Despite broad Catholic support, some far-right U.S. conservatives criticized his election. MAGA supporters labeled him \u201cwoke\u201d and \u201canti-Trump,\u201d citing his past comments on immigration and criticism of political figures like JD Vance.<\/p>\n President Trump congratulated him publicly, calling it a \u201cgreat honor\u201d for the U.S., though he admitted surprise at the election outcome.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" White smoke rose above the Vatican Thursday evening as Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was elected the first American pope, taking the name Leo XIV \u2014 the first Leo in over a century. Thousands cheered as Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter\u2019s Basilica. In his first speech, he offered a message of…<\/p>\n