Image Credit: AFP via Getty Images The Catholic Church elected its new leader on May 8, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis. Former Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is now known as Pope Leo XIV, and the Chicago native has already made history as the first American pope. In the months since his election, Pope Leo has quickly emerged as a prominent global voice, frequently speaking out on issues like war, peace, and humanitarian crises, including during his recent international travels in 2026. Still, his first address from the balcony of St.