May 8 will go down in history as the day the Vatican turned the page — and introduced the world to Pope Leo XIV. After a conclave marked by anticipation and reflection, white smoke once again rose from the Sistine Chapel, and the world held its breath to hear those words as symbolic as they are stirring: “Habemus papam.”
Yes, we now have a new leader of the Catholic Church: American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected pope and will be known as Pope Leo XIV.
From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the announcement was made by French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti. The new pontiff stepped forward with a visible smile, clearly moved, and greeted a crowd that welcomed him with open arms and open hearts.
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The Hidden Messages in Pope Leo XIV’s First Speech
Pope Leo XIV’s first message was more than a formal greeting — it was a letter to the human soul. With a serene but emotional voice, he began:
“Peace be with you all. Dear brothers and sisters. This is the first greeting of the Risen Christ and Good Shepherd, who gave his life for the flock of God.”
As his words continued, his tone grew deeper:
“I would like this greeting of peace to reach your hearts, your families, and all people, wherever they may be.”
At that moment, the entire square fell silent, allowing the pope’s words to echo across the space.
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He soon paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, with tenderness and respect:
“We still carry in our ears that soft yet always brave voice of Pope Francis, who blessed Rome and the whole world that Easter morning.”
Leo XIV is not only the first American pope — he also has deep Latin American roots, having served as bishop in Peru. He didn’t forget to offer a heartfelt greeting in Spanish that touched many:
“And if I may, I also send greetings to all those who asked me to remember God in Peru, where a faithful people accompanied their bishop, shared their faith, and gave so much to remain a faithful Church of Jesus Christ.”
With this gesture, Pope Leo XIV made it clear: he envisions a Church that is open, diverse, and close to its people. In his address, he emphasized that the Church must be:
“A missionary Church that builds bridges of dialogue, with open arms for all — especially for those who need our charity, our presence, our dialogue, and our love.”
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He also took the opportunity to highlight his Augustinian identity:
“I am a son of Saint Augustine… with you I am a Christian, for you I am a bishop.”
Finally, Pope Leo XIV offered his first blessing as the leader of the Church, invoking the intercession of Saints Peter and Paul, the Virgin Mary, and the guardian angels. A mystical ending — but also a deeply human one, just like his entire message.
This article was originally written in Spanish by Nayely Aguilera in Cultura Colectiva.
