Political figures around the world have congratulated Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, after his election on Thursday, May 8, as Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. Hailing from Chicago and a dual U.

On day two of the conclave and after only four rounds of voting, Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected and will be known as Pope Leo XIV, the first-ever North American pope.

The elevation of Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost to pope earlier this month has been a point of pride for Chicagoland parishes, including in the north suburbs of Morton Grove, Park Ridge,

Leo urged an end to the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. "I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people," he said. "Let us do everything possible to reach a genuine, just and lasting peace as soon as possible. May all prisoners be freed and children be able to return to their families."

Pope Leo XIV is facing criticism from survivors over his record on clergy sexual abuse while he served in Chicago and Peru. He is also drawing praise.

Assumption Cemetery in Glenwood and Holy Sepulchre in Alsip, where Robert Prevost’s close relatives reside, remained peaceful Friday.

He said he expects Robert Prevost, the new Pope Leo XIV, to be a “second Pope Francis” and described him as very concerned for the poor and those who don’t have a voice.

R obert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, made history on Thursday, May 8, when he was elected as the first American Pope. The Chicago native, who has spent many years s