Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost Becomes First U.S.-Born Pope: A Historic Moment for the Catholic Church and America

In an unprecedented moment for both the Roman Catholic Church and the United States, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the 267th pontiff—making history as the first pope born in the United States. The announcement was made on May 8, 2025, sending waves of reaction through religious and political communities alike.

The 69-year-old Chicago native has chosen the name Pope Leo XIV and made his first public appearance as pontiff from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City on Thursday evening. Thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers as he stepped forward, offering his first greeting: “Peace be with all of you!”—a phrase deeply rooted in the Christian tradition and reflective of his pastoral focus.

President Donald Trump Reacts to the Election

Former President Donald Trump responded to the news via Truth Social, writing:
“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”

The post was later reshared on X (formerly Twitter) by the official White House account, amplifying its visibility. However, Trump’s reaction followed recent controversy. Just days earlier, he faced criticism for posting an AI-generated image depicting himself as pope. In the image, Trump was shown dressed in traditional papal attire, seated solemnly with one finger raised—an image that many Catholics found insensitive, especially during the mourning period following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.

Despite the backlash, Trump’s congratulatory message marked a shift in tone, appearing more respectful and unifying. Political commentators noted that the message could be an attempt to reframe his image among religious voters ahead of a contentious election season.

A Pope from Chicago: From Humble Roots to the Papacy

Pope Leo XIV, born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, is the son of Louis Marius Prevost, of French and Italian descent, and Mildred Martínez, of Spanish heritage. He was raised alongside two brothers—Louis Martín and John Joseph—in a devout Catholic family that instilled in him a deep sense of faith and service.

He began his religious journey at the Minor Seminary of the Augustinian Fathers and later pursued higher education at Villanova University, where he earned a degree in Mathematics in 1977, along with studies in Philosophy. That same year, he joined the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) and made his first profession in 1978. His solemn vows followed in 1981.

He studied theology at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and was later sent to Rome to pursue Canon Law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum). He was ordained a priest on June 19, 1982, in Rome.

Service Abroad and Rise Through the Church Hierarchy

Pope Leo XIV dedicated many years to missionary work, particularly in Peru, where he played a pivotal role in pastoral leadership. He completed his doctoral thesis in 1987 and soon rose through the ranks of the Augustinian order.

Under Pope Francis, his ecclesiastical career advanced significantly. He was appointed Apostolic Administrator and later Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, before being called to Rome in 2023 to serve as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. That same year, he was elevated to the College of Cardinals.

By 2024, he had firmly established himself within the Vatican's administrative and theological circles, participating in major synodal discussions and earning a reputation as a bridge-builder within the global Church.

A Message of Peace, Dialogue, and Compassion

During his first speech as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV emphasized his desire for peace, unity, and compassion in a divided world. Drawing inspiration from Christ’s post-resurrection greeting, “Peace be with you,” he conveyed a deep yearning for reconciliation—not only within the Church but across nations and cultures.

He also expressed gratitude toward his predecessor, Pope Francis, and the cardinals who elected him. “I am a son of Saint Augustine, an Augustinian. With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop. So may we all walk together toward that homeland that God has prepared for us,” he said.

In a nod to his heritage, he extended a heartfelt greeting to the Church of Rome while not forgetting his American roots. Observers noted his ability to straddle both identities—as a product of American Catholicism and a leader of the global Church.

Mixed Reactions Online and Political Undertones

The pontiff’s remarks resonated deeply online. Reactions ranged from emotional to humorous, with many social media users sharing their thoughts. One viewer posted, “Goosebumps.” Another added, “His words brought actual chills… peace and unity are exactly what our world needs right now.”

Some users couldn’t help but draw comparisons with Trump. One quipped, “He’s talking to you, Donnie!” Others joked about how long it might take before the former president might try to “fire” the pope.

Some praised the pope’s bridge-building approach as a sharp contrast to Trump’s past rhetoric on division and exclusion. However, there were also voices of caution—some worried that Pope Leo XIV might lean too progressive, while others hoped he would preserve traditional Church doctrines.

A Pontiff Not Afraid to Engage Politically

Even before his election, Pope Leo XIV was not shy about voicing his opinion on moral issues intersecting with politics. In February 2025, he responded publicly to Vice President JD Vance’s controversial remarks about prioritizing love for Americans over others.

“JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others,” then-Cardinal Prevost wrote on X, linking to a National Catholic Reporter article. The statement drew widespread attention, highlighting his firm belief in the universal call to compassion and inclusion.

Looking Ahead

As the first American to ascend to the papacy, Pope Leo XIV’s election is a milestone in Church history. More than a symbolic moment, it represents an opportunity for the Catholic Church to further engage with global challenges—from poverty and migration to environmental stewardship and interfaith dialogue.

In his opening message, the pope called for the Church to become ever more missionary and inclusive, always ready to “welcome everyone in need of charity, presence, dialogue, and love.”

As the Church begins this new chapter, many around the world—Catholic or not—are watching with renewed interest and cautious hope.