White smoke rising over the Vatican on Thursday signaled the election of a new pope. After two days of deliberations, the conclave of cardinals convened in the Sistine Chapel and selected American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, age 69, as the 268th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. Appearing on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he greeted tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square and announced that he would take the name Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff in more than a century to revive that papal name.

The announcement was met with widespread celebration among Catholics around the world. Many viewed Leo XIV’s election as a moment of renewal and unity, reflecting the Church’s increasingly global identity. His background in pastoral outreach and his reputation for thoughtful, inclusive leadership drew praise from both religious and civic leaders.

Pope Leo XIV previously served in Peru and the United States, where he was known for bridging cultural and social divides. Supporters say his election symbolizes a hopeful step toward dialogue and modernization.

Not all reactions were positive, however. Some commentators online expressed skepticism about his approach to doctrine and reform, questioning how far he might go in addressing contentious social issues.

Even so, his elevation marks a historic milestone for the Catholic Church. As bells rang across Rome, the world turned its attention to the new pope, waiting to see how Leo XIV will guide the Church into its next chapter.