Cardinal Prevost chooses a new name as Pope and makes first public appearance

Robert Francis Prevost: New Pope Makes First Public Appearance

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost made his first public appearance as Pope on May 8, 2025. He appeared on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica after his election. The Vatican announced that he chose the name Leo XIV.

Videos of his appearance quickly went viral online. Many people congratulated him and expressed excitement about having the first American Pope.

His appearance followed white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel chimney. This smoke signaled that the 133 cardinal electors had chosen a new leader for the Catholic Church.

Prevost waved to a large crowd gathered at the forecourt of the Sistine Chapel. The crowd cheered and chanted in celebration.

In a brief speech, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced the election results. He declared, “I announce to you a great joy; we have a Pope.” He introduced Prevost as "The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord, Lord Robert Francis Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church PREVOST," who has taken the name Leo XIV.