Pope Leo XIV Makes His First Appearance to the Public

In an event anticipated by millions, throngs of people filled St. Peter’s Square and tuned in globally to discover the successor to Pope Francis.

Pope Leo XIV made his inaugural appearance to the world by stepping onto a balcony that looks over St. Peter's Square, embracing his responsibilities as the head of the Roman Catholic Church.

Shortly post-6 p.m., the square erupted in celebration as white smoke streamed from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, signifying that the cardinals had reached a consensus on appointing a new pope.

Adorned in the traditional white and red papal vestments, Pope Leo XIV discarded his former cardinal's robes and name that he had carried for 69 years. Hailing from Chicago, he marks a historic milestone as the first pope from the United States.

The conclave, tasked with choosing a new pope following Pope Francis’s passing in April, was the first in over a decade and concluded in just over a day, despite being the largest ever, with over 130 cardinals eligible to vote, most nominated by Francis.

Pope Leo XIV steps into his role during a period of uncertainty for the church and its 1.4 billion believers, debating whether to uphold Francis’s progressive policies or shift towards conservatism. His proponents advocated his candidacy during the election process.

Thursday night saw an unprecedented gathering united in joy.

White smoke signaled the election of the new pope.

Anticipation and Announcement

A cardinal declared “Habemus Papam,” or “we have a pope,” moments before Pope Leo XIV made his way to the balcony.

In anticipation of his appearance, the Swiss Guards positioned themselves on the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica.

An International Gathering

Earlier in the day, the atmosphere was filled with fervent anticipation, as shown by a nun from Mexico awaiting the traditional white smoke.

Media and press representatives were present throughout the day, capturing the global significance of the conclave.

Inside the venerable walls of St. Peter’s Basilica, the conclave of cardinals defined the future direction of the church.