White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney Thursday, signaling the selection of a new pope. The College of Cardinals chose Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, who will be known as Pope Leo XIV and makes history as the first pontiff ever from the United States.

The election of Pope Leo XIV comes after Pope Francis’ death last month at age 88.

The news of an American pope prompted Catholic clergy across the United States to express their surprise and excitement.

“It was unexpected that he was from the United States,” Father Michael Ronayne of Old Mission Santa Inés in Solvang said, “but we know he is a very capable and intelligent person with a wealth of experience and talent. As part of the Old Mission and Catholic faith, we are thrilled to have a new pope who brings fresh perspectives.”

Prevost, born in Chicago, earned his degree in mathematics from Villanova University in
Pennsylvania before pursuing his Master of Divinity at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.

As an Augustinian friar, he devoted much of his career to missionary work, spending more than a decade in Peru, where he was appointed bishop, according to news reports.

His extensive international experience has led many to see him as a figure capable of uniting the global church.

“I am delighted with our new pope,” said Father Lawrence Seyer, pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Montecito. “Given that he has lived in many places in the world, I am hopeful that he will be a great unifier.”

The Old Mission Santa Barbara hung special flags and rang its bells Thursday to celebrate the news.

“Wow! A historic day for the Catholic Church — congratulations to Pope Leo XIV and Catholics around the world!” the organization wrote on its Facebook page.

Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a historic moment for the church, signaling a new chapter in its leadership. As the first pope from the United States, Prevost is expected to significantly influence the Catholic Church’s domestic and global affairs.