By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
United States President Donald J. Trump has hailed the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church, calling it “a great honor” for the country after the American-born cardinal was chosen as the 267th pope.
Prevost, 69, was elected Wednesday evening at the Vatican, taking the name Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American in history to ascend to the papacy.
President Trump issued an official statement on Truth Social shortly after the announcement from St. Peter’s Basilica:
“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!”
Prevost, a native of Chicago, previously served as the Vatican’s Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. Known for his theological depth and international ministry, he will now lead the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics at a time of global uncertainty and internal Church challenges.
His election follows the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, which marked the end of a transformative papacy defined by progressive reforms, global outreach, and moral leadership on issues such as poverty, the environment, and interfaith dialogue.
The conclave of 133 cardinals from across the globe gathered in the Sistine Chapel earlier this week and reached consensus after several rounds of voting. The appearance of white smoke and the proclamation of “Habemus Papam” from the basilica’s balcony confirmed the decision.
Global reactions have poured in, with many world leaders and Church figures welcoming Pope Leo XIV’s election as a sign of continuity and renewal. Trump’s response, however, was one of the first and most high-profile acknowledgments from a head of state.
Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural address and first Urbi et Orbi blessing shortly after being announced as the Pope. In his address, the new Pope pledged unity, peace, outreach and humility, urging the catholics world over to remain faithful to love one another, and urged for togetherness as the new task ahead requires collective support.
“We have a sacred duty to move forward together—as one people, one Church, and one community of believers. Let us be disciples of peace, committed to dialogue, negotiation, and mediation,” Pope Leo XIV said.
The Pope also extended a heartfelt message to the world saying; “To the people of the world—I send you my blessings. May you remain faithful in all you do, and may your hearts always be open to love, mercy, and hope.”
