Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on Thursday became the first ever pope from the U.S., a surprise selection by 133 cardinals from across the globe on the second day of the papal conclave in Rome.
The new pontiff, who took the name Leo XIV, greeted the thousands of exuberant faithful and onlookers, many overcome with emotion as he spoke from the red velvet-draped central balcony at St. Peter’s Square.
"Peace be with you all," he told the cheering crowd in fluent Italian. Leo, who became the church's 267th pope, also spoke in Spanish but not English in his brief address.
Leo thanked Pope Francis and repeated his predecessor's call for a church that is engaged with the modern world and "is always looking for peace, charity and being close to people, especially those who are suffering."
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