UPDATE:
Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago-born cardinal, was elected the 267th pope on Thursday, becoming the first U.S.-born pontiff in history — defying historical odds and expert opinion, which had long downplayed the likelihood of an American pope due to global geopolitical perceptions.
His papal name is Pope Leo XIV.
Prevost was appointed by Pope Francis in 2023 to oversee global bishop selections. The announcement sparked varied reactions on X, with some users expressing disappointment over Prevost’s liberal proclivities and selection over other favored candidates like Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE:
The Vatican has not yet revealed the identity of the newly elected pope. The next pontiff is expected to appear in minutes following the traditional announcement — “Habemus Papam” (“We have a pope”) — from the balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square, where thousands have gathered in anticipation. The new pontiff will then deliver his first apostolic blessing, “Urbi et Orbi,” to the faithful assembled below.
It is widely believed that Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State under Pope Francis, has been chosen. The official announcement via Habemus Papam is expected shortly after 1 p.m. ET. This article will be updated as soon as the new pope is formally introduced.
Regardless of who is selected, Thursday’s development marks a transformative moment for the Roman Catholic Church. The newly elected pope will lead the spiritual direction of more than 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
Cardinal Parolin is considered a close collaborator of Pope Francis and a supporter of many of his reforms. Francis has often been viewed as steering the Church in a more liberal direction — a stance that has drawn criticism from some within the Church.
Traditionalist Catholics have expressed concern over Parolin’s record, particularly his role in controversial agreements with China and his perceived willingness to accommodate secular governments and progressive voices within the Church.
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This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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