White smoke rose above the Vatican on Thursday, announcing the election of a new pope. After days of deliberation, the College of Cardinals chose Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American, as the new leader of the Catholic Church.

Stepping onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he greeted thousands gathered below and revealed his papal name: “Leo XIV.” The title, unused for more than a century, links him to “a long lineage of popes named Leo” who each left their mark on church history.

Catholics worldwide celebrated the moment as one of “renewal and unity.” Prevost’s American background was seen as a milestone, symbolizing the Church’s global diversity. Social media overflowed with congratulations, prayers, and messages praising his reputation as “a thoughtful, compassionate, and reform-minded leader.”

Not all reactions were positive. Some political and religious commentators expressed doubts about the direction his papacy might take, reflecting ongoing ideological divides within the Church.

Still, Pope Leo XIV’s election signals “the beginning of a new chapter for the Vatican.” As he begins his papacy, many look to see how his leadership will guide Catholicism through an era of rapid global change.