After the Election of the First American Pope, Donald Trump Breaks His Silence

Note:Video of new pope at the end of article.

1. From Black Smoke to White Smoke: The Conclave Unfolds

1.1 The Initial Days of the Conclave

The papal election began on May 7, 2025, as 115 cardinal electors under the age of 80 were sealed inside the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel. In accordance with centuries-old tradition, they took an oath of secrecy, surrendering all forms of outside communication—mobile phones, newspapers, and internet access—to avoid external influence on their deliberations.

1.2 Signaling Progress: The Smoke Ritual

Each ballot concluded with the lighting of damp straw under the chapel chimney, producing black smoke to indicate no decision. For two full days, onlookers in St. Peter’s Square and countless spectators worldwide gazed expectantly at the chimney, interpreting each black plume as a sign of ongoing debate. Then, on the morning of May 8 at precisely 11:47 a.m. local time, the black clouds gave way to white smoke, announcing that a candidate had secured the required two-thirds majority.

1.3 The Proclamation on St. Peter’s Basilica

Moments later, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. In a solemn declaration, he proclaimed: “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!” (“I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope!”). The world learned that Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago had been chosen as the 267th successor to St. Peter and had adopted the regnal name Pope Leo XIV.

2. The Passing of Pope Francis and the Road to a New Pontificate

2.1 Pope Francis’s Final Days

On Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, Vatican officials announced that Pope Francis had suffered a severe cerebrovascular accident. Despite emergency medical interventions, His Holiness peacefully passed away that afternoon at the age of 88. His 12-year pontificate was characterized by a focus on social justice, environmental stewardship, and pastoral outreach to the margins of society.

2.2 A Nine-Day Mourning Period

Tradition calls for a Novemdiales, a nine-day period of official mourning. During these nine days, thousands of faithful visited St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their respects as the late pontiff’s coffin lay in state. On April 30, a solemn funeral Mass was celebrated by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, after which the Church formally entered the interregnum—sede vacante—awaiting the election of a new bishop of Rome.

3. Understanding the Conclave: Rituals, Restrictions, and Reverence

3.1 Historical Foundations

The modern conclave stems from reforms enacted at the Second Council of Lyon in 1274 by Pope Gregory X, who sought to expedite papal elections plagued by political interference and undue delay. The Latin term conclave literally means “with a key,” signifying the locked doors that seal the cardinals away from external pressures.

3.2 Secrecy and Symbolism

• Oath of Confidentiality: Cardinals swear to maintain absolute silence regarding all proceedings.

• Locked Accommodations: Electors reside in the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse, cut off from emails, news outlets, and telephone calls.

• Daily Voting Sessions: Up to four ballots occur each day—two in the morning and two in the afternoon—until a clear winner emerges.

• Smoke Signals: Black smoke denotes inconclusive votes; white smoke signals successful election.

These rituals underscore the sacredness of the process and the weighty responsibility borne by each elector.

4. Introducing Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost: Pope Leo XIV

4.1 Early Life and Priestly Vocation

Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1956 to devout Catholic parents, Robert Francis Prevost entered the Order of Saint Augustine after completing undergraduate studies. Ordained a priest in 1982 at the age of 27, his early ministry combined academic pursuits—earning degrees in theology and canon law—with pastoral assignments that spanned urban parishes and university chaplaincies.

4.2 Leadership within the Augustinian Order

From 2001 to 2013, Father Prevost served as Prior General of the Augustinian Order, overseeing more than 3,500 friars across the globe. He championed renewed emphasis on:

• Evangelization through local communities

• Education, by fostering stronger ties with Catholic universities

• Social outreach, particularly assisting refugees and economically marginalized populations

These initiatives earned him widespread respect among Augustinians and collaborators in ecumenical and interfaith circles.

4.3 Episcopal Ministry in Peru

Appointed Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, in 2015, Prevost shepherded one of the country’s fastest-growing dioceses. His highlights include:

• Mobile Healthcare Clinics: Bringing essential medical services to remote villages

• Scholarship Funds: Supporting students from low-income families in secondary and higher education

• Synodal Workshops: Engaging lay leaders, youth, and religious communities in discussions on pastoral priorities

During his eight-year tenure, he became known for balancing firm doctrinal teaching with compassionate accompaniment, reflecting priorities long emphasized by his predecessor, Pope Francis.

5. The Name “Leo XIV”: Meaning and Message

When choosing a papal name, each new pontiff signals his intended emphases. By selecting Leo XIV, the new pope evokes:

• St. Leo the Great (d. 461): Celebrated for defending Rome against Attila the Hun and articulating Christological doctrine at the Council of Chalcedon.

• Pope Leo XIII (r. 1878–1903): Remembered for Rerum Novarum, the 1891 encyclical on labor rights and the Church’s social teaching.

Together, these predecessors highlight courage in defense of the faith and a commitment to social justice—cornerstones of Leo XIV’s anticipated vision for the Church.

6. Donald Trump’s Response on Truth Social

6.1 The Content of the Statement

Within hours of white smoke signaling the election, former President Donald Trump took to his platform, Truth Social, to congratulate the new pontiff. His statement read, in part:

“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”

6.2 Significance of Trump’s Reaction

Several factors make this response noteworthy:

• Timing: Trump’s statement came swiftly, underscoring the global attention on an American occupying the highest office of the Catholic Church.

• Patriotic Framing: By emphasizing the “Great Honor for our Country,” Trump tapped into nationalist sentiment and highlighted the United States’ influence in international religious affairs.

• Anticipation of a Meeting: Noting his intent to meet the new pope suggests continued political engagement with Vatican leadership—an approach consistent with Trump’s ongoing efforts to court religious constituencies.

7. The Broader Reaction: Media, Faithful, and World Leaders

7.1 International Media Coverage

Major news outlets around the globe led their bulletins with images of white smoke and Pope Leo XIV’s first blessing. Analysts noted:

• The historical nature of an American election to St. Peter’s chair

• Speculation on potential shifts in Vatican–U.S. relations

• Commentary on Leo XIV’s pastoral style, informed by his Augustinian formation and Latin American ministry

7.2 Responses from Catholic Faithful

Social media platforms were awash with expressions of joy and hope. Key themes included:

• Pride in American Representation: U.S. Catholics celebrated the ceremony as recognition of their community’s contribution to global Catholicism.

• Calls for Continuity: Many laity expressed desire for Pope Leo XIV to maintain Francis’s focus on poverty alleviation and environmental care.

• Interest in New Initiatives: Parish newsletters and diocesan websites began organizing watch parties and prayer vigils in anticipation of Leo XIV’s early pastoral letters.

7.3 Statements from World Leaders

Leaders from Washington to Beijing offered official felicitations:

• U.S. President: Issued a White House statement honoring the election as a milestone in U.S.–Vatican ties.

• European Heads of State: Extended their congratulations, emphasizing the pope’s role in fostering peace and interfaith dialogue.

• Latin American Governments: Highlighted Prevost’s work in Peru, anticipating strengthened collaboration on social programs.

8. Conclave Cuisine and Cardinal Protocols

While the spotlight shines on the white smoke, less attention often goes to the conclave’s everyday realities—like dining. Cardinals reside in the Casa Santa Marta, a modest five-story guesthouse adjacent to St. Peter’s Square, and are served simple meals by Vatican nuns. Menu staples include:

• Lean Proteins: Poultry (without skin), fish, and occasional lean meats

• Vegetables: Steamed or boiled assortments—often potatoes, carrots, and green beans

• Pasta Dishes: Light preparations with seasonal vegetables

• Prohibited Foods: Pies, quiches, and whole birds are banned to avoid distractions

These restrictions, combined with enforced silence outside of chapel sessions, create an environment focused on prayer, reflection, and discernment.

9. Early Challenges and Priorities for Pope Leo XIV

9.1 Upholding Social Justice and the Environment

Building on Laudato Si’ and Fratelli Tutti, the new pontiff is expected to:

• Launch Vatican-led sustainability projects

• Strengthen global partnerships on climate action

• Advocate for migrants and refugees through diplomatic channels

9.2 Promoting Synodal Governance

Encouraged by the recent Synod on Synodality (2021–2024), Leo XIV may:

• Convene local diocesan synods focusing on youth engagement

• Expand lay participation in parish councils

• Foster ongoing dialogue on liturgical renewal and pastoral care

9.3 Addressing Secularization and Vocational Shortages

With declining Mass attendance in parts of Europe and North America:

• New evangelization strategies will likely target digital platforms

• Vocational promotion programs may seek to inspire a “culture of vocation” among young Catholics

• Emphasis on mental health support for clergy and laity alike

10. Looking Ahead: The First 100 Days

10.1 Inauguration Mass and Initial Homilies

Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass is scheduled for May 20, 2025. Anticipated themes include:

• Humility and Service: Reaffirmed by washing of feet ceremonies

• Global Solidarity: Announcements of early visits to conflict zones or areas facing humanitarian crises

• Youth Engagement: Plans for a 2026 Youth Synod in Rome, focusing on digital culture and mental wellness

10.2 Curial and Administrative Reforms

Expect:

• Continued financial transparency initiatives

• Restructuring of key Vatican departments to balance tradition with modern pastoral demands

• Enhanced communication strategies leveraging U.S.-based media expertise

Conclusion

The election of Pope Leo XIV, an American whose ministry has spanned North America, Europe, and Latin America, heralds a new era for the Catholic Church. With his background in Augustinian governance, pastoral outreach in Peru, and dedication to social teaching, the 267th pontiff stands poised to build upon Pope Francis’s legacy while bringing his own distinct vision to the global stage.

Donald Trump’s prompt congratulations on Truth Social underscore the election’s broader geopolitical resonance. As the world watches, Leo XIV’s early actions—through homilies, diplomatic engagements, and administrative reforms—will set the tone for a pontificate that bridges continents, generations, and cultures.