What papal name did Cardinal Robert Prevost take when he was elected pope in May 2025?

When Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected as the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church in May 2025, he chose the papal name Leo XIV. This historic election followed the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, which initiated a period of mourning and preparation for the papal conclave. The College of Cardinals, comprising eligible cardinal electors under 80 years of age, gathered in the Sistine Chapel on May 7, 2025, to begin the process of selecting a new successor to Saint Peter.

The conclave concluded swiftly on May 8, 2025, after four ballots over two days, with the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost. Hailing from Chicago, USA, Prevost became the first American to hold the papacy. His selection marked a significant moment for the global Catholic Church, reflecting its increasingly diverse nature.

The choice of the name Leo XIV carries historical weight, as "Leo" is a name associated with strength and leadership, often adopted by popes during times of challenge or transition. Before his election, Pope Leo XIV, born in 1955, served as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America under Pope Francis. His extensive experience included two decades as a missionary in Peru, and his tenure as Augustinian superior saw him travel widely, preparing him for the global responsibilities of the papacy.