Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American, has been elected as the new Pope and will be known as Pope Leo XIV. On Thursday evening, he appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica after white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney. Prior to this, the French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti announced the new Holy Father with the famous phrase “Habemus Papam”.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) promptly congratulated the newly elected spiritual leader within minutes of the announcement. “Through your office, you are giving millions of believers worldwide hope and direction in these times of great challenges. For many people, you are a beacon of justice and reconciliation. In Germany, people look forward to your papacy with optimism and positive expectations” said the CDU politician. “I wish you strength, good health and God’s blessings for the tasks ahead of you.”
Of the 52 cardinals who participated in the election, the majority were from Europe, including 17 from Italy alone. There were 23 cardinals from Asia, 20 from North America and 17 from South America. In Africa, the Popes have appointed 17 cardinals, while in Oceania, there are four.
Bookmakers gave the current Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin the best chances of becoming Pope. Also highly rated were Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines and Matteo Zuppi from Bologna.