Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, has been elected as the first American-born pontiff, succeeding Pope Francis who passed away on April 21, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Prevost has a diverse background, having served as the Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru from 2015 to 2023, and later as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and a cardinal. His election marks a significant moment for the Catholic Church, with over 100,000 people expected to attend his official inauguration on May 18, 2025, at St. Peter's Square in Rome. In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the provision of humanitarian aid to the civilian population, and the release of all hostages. He also emphasized the need for peace in conflict zones such as Ukraine, India, and Pakistan, echoing Pope Francis's stance on global peace. Leo XIV's commitment to peace was further highlighted in his discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who invited the Pope to visit Ukraine. The Pope also noted the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, which claimed 60 million victims, and warned of a 'piecemeal World War III.' Pope Leo XIV has also made it clear that he will continue to advocate for the rights of journalists and the importance of responsible communication. During his first press conference, attended by 2000 journalists in the Paul VI Audience Hall, he urged the media to be 'operators of peace' and to seek truth with love, rejecting the 'war of words and images.' He also expressed concern for the approximately 550 journalists imprisoned worldwide, emphasizing the role of informed individuals in making free choices. The new Pope's choice of name, Leo XIV, reflects his intention to focus on social justice and workers' rights, drawing inspiration from Pope Leo XIII's encyclical 'Rerum Novarum.' His background in Illinois, a state with a strong labor tradition, likely influenced this decision. Additionally, Pope Leo XIV has confirmed plans for his first international trip to Turkey, signaling his interest in engaging with global issues. Pope Leo XIV's election has sparked discussions about his potential impact on various global issues, including immigration, climate change, and economic inequality. His predecessor, Pope Francis, appointed many of the cardinals who elected Leo XIV, suggesting a continuity in the Church's approach to these matters. The new Pope's diverse heritage, tracing back to the Creole and free people of color from Louisiana, adds a unique dimension to his leadership. Pope Leo XIV has also embraced social media, making his first Instagram post and accepting the papal account with 52 million followers.