Just one day, after the 133 cardinal electors began choosing the new pope and leader of the universal Catholic Church, the smoke signaled that a decision had been made.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the 69-year-old American Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, was elected as the 267th successor of St. Peter, taking the name Leo XIV.

According to the Irondale-based Catholic News Agency, "White smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel at 6:09 p.m. Rome time on Thursday, signaling that the College of Cardinals had chosen a successor to Pope Francis, who died on April 21...The new pontiff appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica at approximately 7:25 p.m. local time, where Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the protodeacon of the College of Cardinals and prefect of the Apostolic Signatura, announced in Latin: “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!”

Among the responses are those of lawmakers and leaders around the state.

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) posted, "Habemus Papam. The first American Pope. May God bless and guide Pope Leo XIV."

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) reposted a message from President Donald Trump while saying, "Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV—the first American pope. Will be praying for him and Catholics across our country during this historic time."

Governor Kay Ivey wrote, "May God continue to bless Pope Leo XIV, our Catholic Alabamians and Christians all around the world looking to this first ever American pope for spiritual guidance. An exciting day for all!"

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) reposted a message from House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) congratulating Pope Leo XIV.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) shared his prayer that the new pope's leadership would help spread the gospel.

"History is made," he posted on X. "Today, the College of Cardinals has chosen Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff. While I am not Catholic, I pray his leadership helps spread the gospel of Christ around the globe. The world desperately needs to hear that good news now more than ever.

To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected]

Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch. 

Fishers Farm730 CMP Article Bottom JH Outback