Who is Pope Leo XIV?
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is a 69 year old Chicago native, he was elected as the 267th pope, taking the name of Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American born pope in the history of the Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIV has a rich background in Catholicism, where he spent over two decades in Peru where he served as a bishop. He was created cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023, and as of May 8th 2025, he is the new pope of the Catholic Church.
With Pope Francis’ passing the spot for the new pope had opened, on May 8th 2025 Pope Leo XIV was inducted into the office.
But how does this work?
When the pope passes away, the Catholic Church enters a period where the seat is vacant, this is called “sede vacante”. Then the pope’s death is confirmed by a senior cardinal, who then oversees the Catholic Church during this time. The senior cardinal also organizes the pope’s funeral and ensures the Fisherman’s Ring (a symbol of authority) is destroyed. During this period, all major decisions by the Catholic Church are paused in preparation for the new pope.
The name for the process of electing a new pope is called a ‘conclave’ and the process takes place in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. All Catholic Cardinals meet in the dome and all of those under 80 vote. No contact from the outside world is made until the voting is done. A two thirds majority of the Church is required to elect a new pope. After each round ballots are destroyed and black smoke signals no decision whereas white smoke signals a successful election. Once a new pope is chosen he has to accept his role and chooses a name to run under. Finally the Chapel opens up and a new pope is elected.