"Leone!": Vatican Crowds Cheer as Leo XIV Becomes New Pope

On Thursday, thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, chanting "Leone! Leone! Leone!" to welcome Robert Prevost, who had ascended to the papacy as Pope Leo XIV. The celebration followed the sight of white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling that the conclave of cardinals had elected a new pope for the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics. The moment marked the start of a new papacy after Pope Francis’s death on April 21, and Pope Leo XIV's first appearance to the public was a historic event.

The crowd was silent as Pope Leo XIV appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to deliver his first blessing. He opened with the words, “Peace be upon you,” which resonated deeply with the faithful. Leo XIV then repeated a blessing once given by his late predecessor, Pope Francis, emphasizing the message of love, unity, and the triumph of good over evil. “God loves us, God loves everyone, and evil will not prevail. We are in the hands of God,” he said, reassuring the faithful and bringing continuity from the previous papacy.

The new pope’s remarks carried the weight of tradition, yet also signaled a potential shift in direction. His use of the word “peace” was intentional, echoing Jesus’s message after Easter, as explained by Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni. The pope’s speech focused on unity and peace, calling on Catholics to seek “a disarmed peace and a disarming peace” through dialogue and building bridges. His message was warmly received, with one member of the audience shouting, “Bravo! That is what we need!” The emphasis on peace was seen as timely and necessary, especially in a world rife with conflict.

For many in the crowd, Pope Leo XIV’s election represented a historic moment. Among them was Kasper Mihalak, a 29-year-old from Denmark, who was eager to witness the first North American pope. “I am really excited. Cardinal Prevost, now Leo XIV — it’s gonna be amazing!” Mihalak said. He appreciated the pope’s emphasis on peace, noting that it was something the world truly needs right now.

Rosaria Venuto, who had driven four hours from her hometown in southern Italy with her children to attend the papal announcement, was visibly moved. “I am deeply moved to have the chance to be here and live through this joy and be a small part of this historical event,” she said, holding back tears. This emotional connection reflected the significance of the occasion for many Catholics present, as they felt privileged to witness a pivotal moment in the history of the Church.

Pope Leo XIV was elected on the second day of the conclave, and his opening speech set a tone of continuity with Pope Francis, who had been beloved for his inclusive approach. However, experts believe that Pope Leo XIV is likely to navigate a middle path, balancing the inclusiveness of Francis's agenda with the traditional values of the Vatican. His call for peace, unity, and dialogue suggested that he would emphasize healing and bringing together the Church and the world, in line with the challenges the Church faces in the modern era.

As the crowd cheered and waited for the pope’s next steps, the atmosphere in St. Peter’s Square was one of hope and anticipation. The election of Pope Leo XIV was not only a significant moment for Catholics worldwide but also a symbol of renewal, as the Church faces contemporary challenges with a new leader at the helm. The pope’s emphasis on peace and dialogue was a clear signal that his papacy would prioritize these themes, resonating deeply with a world in need of healing.