The conclave has elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American-born cleric, as the new popeNow the 267th pontiff, he will be known as Pope Leo XIV as he assumes the mantle of spiritual leadership over more than 1.

Robert Prevost, a missionary who spent his career ministering in Peru and leads the Vatican's powerful office of bishops, was elected the first American pope in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church.

Pope Francis stepped down after a long period of ill health, leaving the Catholic Church to select a new leader. In a surprising turn of events, the conclave of cardinals chose Cardinal Robert Prevost,