White Smoke Signals Election of First American Pope

After two days of deliberations, white smoke has risen from the Sistine Chapel chimney, announcing the election of a new pope. Sixty-nine-year-old Robert Prevost, the first-ever American pontiff, has chosen the name Pope Leo XIV. Although American, the cardinal is also recognized for his Latin American influence due to the many years he spent as a missionary in Peru, before becoming a bishop there. Today, the Secretary General of the Anglican Communion shared a message of encouragement, highlighting the significant challenges facing the world and the Church, including mass migration, war, poverty, and division. He welcomed Pope Leo’s commitment to building bridges through dialogue and his call for visible unity without fear. The Government of Belize also extended warm congratulations, joining the Catholic community and the world in prayer for peace, unity, and hope under Pope Leo’s pastoral guidance. Belize looks forward to deepening its partnership with the Holy See in education and social development.