Robert Prevost: The new head of the church is called Leo XIV.

The 133 cardinals entitled to vote agreed on a new Pope on May 8th. After only white smoke had risen, numerous people flocked to St. Peter’s Square to catch a glimpse of the new head of the church.

Around 7:10 p.m. by Cardinal Protodiacon Dominique Mamberti (73) on the Loggia of the Peters Basilica with the words “Habemus Papam” (German “We have a Pope”) was officially announced that the new Pontifex was found. It is the American Cardinal Robert Prevost (69). In addition, it was announced for the cheering of the gathered that the new Pope chose the name Leo XIV for itself. Cardinal Prevost is the first American to be elected Pope.

In the evening shortly after 6:00 p.m., white smoke first rose from the chimney at the Sistine chapel. This traditionally announces that a new Pope has been elected. If the successor to the Pope Francis (1936-2025), who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88, had not yet been found, black smoke would have been seen.

The conclave had only started yesterday’s May 7th. Numerous believers had been pending on St. Peter’s Square until 9:00 p.m. in order to experience the result. Less than 24 hours later, Robert Prevost showed up for the first time as Pope Leo XIV. He was welcomed exuberantly by those present with applause, cheers and speech choirs. Prevost seemed to enjoy the moment. According to Italian media reports, the new Pontifex is said to have been chosen in the fourth ballot.