Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was elected as the new pope, Leo XIV, following the death of Pope Francis. The papal conclave, involving a record number of cardinals, concluded Thursday with the announcement of the new pontiff. Prevost, who previously served in Peru, held his first mass in the Sistine Chapel Friday morning. His election marks a historic moment as the first American to hold the papacy.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.