Vietnam congratulates newly-elected Pope Leo XIV

Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church on Thursday, becoming the first U.S. pope.

The new pope was born on September 14, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois, in the midwestern U.S.. 

He is the first member of the Order of St. Augustine to assume this position and the second pope from the Americas after Pope Francis of Argentina.

Although born and raised in North America, the new pope spent two decades serving in Peru, where he became a bishop and acquired citizenship, making him a dual citizen of the U.S. and Peru.

According to The Daily Beast, Pope Leo XIV — born Robert Prevost — chose the papal name Leo to honor the legacy of Pope Leo XIII (1878–1903), who was well known for his 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum. 

That document laid the foundation for modern Catholic social teaching, defending workers' rights and condemning social injustice.

'Leo' in Latin means 'lion,' a symbol of strength and courage, often chosen by popes in times of crisis.

This name also reflects Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to continuing the reform legacy of Pope Francis, emphasizing social justice and closeness to the poor.

The new pope shares many similarities with Pope Francis — who has been called 'the people’s pope.'

Both have shown a deep concern for those on the margins of society and a strong commitment to serving the poor and migrants.

The Mass for the inauguration of Leo XIV will take place at St. Peter’s Square on May 18. 

The ceremony will begin with a solemn procession attended by cardinals, bishops, and clergy.

Pope Leo XIV’s first general audience will be held on May 21. 

He will then meet with senior members of the Vatican on May 24 to officially begin overseeing the Roman Curia.