Pope Leo XIV Elected: First U.S.-Born Pontiff Prompts Local Reactions in Coachella Valley

History was made in Vatican City as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This marks the first time an American-born cleric has been chosen to lead the global faith of 1.4 billion Catholics.

The announcement came as white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the end of a two-day conclave. From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV greeted a cheering crowd and acknowledged the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis.

Here in the Coachella Valley, the news sparked both surprise and reflection.

“I had to stop and think—who are they talking about?” said Father David Foxen of St. Teresa's Catholic Church in Palm Springs. “Then I realized that was the cardinal who had been head of the consistory for choosing bishops. It’s certainly a great honor for the United States.”

At Sacred Heart School, students had been following the conclave process closely. “We were remembering Pope Francis and praying for the Cardinals to select our new leader,” said one student. Teachers noted the event provided a real-time lesson in Catholic traditions, including the symbolism of black and white smoke during voting sessions.

“We were excited when the white smoke appeared,” said another student. “We were waiting for the pope to come out and present himself.”

While the historic election of an American pope thrilled many in the Catholic community, clergy members say any changes to Church leadership or doctrine will unfold with care.

“He’ll make his changes, for sure,” Father Foxen added, “but he’ll do it slowly and in a very reflective way, certainly in light of the Gospel.”

Pope Leo XIV, who previously led the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops and served as a missionary in Peru for over a decade, brings with him a global perspective. Church leaders say his coronation will take place before he formally begins his duties.

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