There’s a new leader of the Catholic Church and for the first time in the church's history, he’s American.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was chosen by fellow cardinals in a Vatican Conclave and is known as Pope Leo XIV.

Born in Chicago, the 69 year old spent years in Peru as a missionary and eventually bishop there.

He is a dual citizen of Peru and the United States.

Pope Leo replaces Francis, who passed away last month at the age of 88.

Premier David Eby congratulated Leo on X, noting his first address was about peace, acceptance and love.

Eby calls that a powerful message of hope that will resonate around the world.

Prime Minister Mark Carney said “Canada looks forward to working with His Holiness to build a world guided by solidarity, justice, and sustainability.”