House Resolution No. by Representative Bayham commends Robert Francis Prevost on his election as Pope Leo XIV, the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, which took place on May 8, 2025. Notably, he is the first pope from the United States and the second from the Americas, following Pope Francis. The resolution highlights Prevost's connections to New Orleans, particularly through his maternal grandmother, and acknowledges the historical significance of the Trem neighborhood, the birthplace of Venerable Henriette DeLille, who dedicated her life to serving the community.
Prior to his papacy, Cardinal Prevost was an American missionary with a significant career in Peru and held various positions within the Church, including president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America and cardinal-bishop of the Diocese of Albano. Following his election, Pope Leo XIV addressed the public with a message of peace, reflecting his commitment to fostering harmony among people. The resolution expresses the Louisiana House of Representatives' sincere wishes for his success as the Bishop of Rome.