The first hours of Pope Leo XIV: his signature, a meeting with Mexicans, and other curiosities

The conclave has elected Cardinal Robert Prevost as the new pontiff of the Catholic Church, under the name of Leo XIV, arousing enthusiasm among millions of believers in the Vatican and around the world. He is the first pope of American origin and Peruvian nationality.

After his presentation, key moments from the new pope's first hours began circulating on social media.

COPE's correspondent in Italy and the Vatican, Eva Fernández, leaked the solemn document in Latin in which Robert Prevost signed his new name, which became recognized in the history of the Holy See's leaders, after accepting his election. The names of the witnesses were also added below.

After his public presentation and the subsequent protocol, Leo XIV appeared at the Vatican Palace, where he had resided during the conclave before the election. In the courtyard, he met a group of priests from Guadalajara. "Greetings from Mexico!" they exclaimed as they greeted the Supreme Pontiff and received his blessing.

Later, in a special moment, Prevost stepped out of a black vehicle and, after greeting those present, signed a little girl's Bible for the first time, adding the historic date of last Thursday, May 8th . Some media outlets indicate the girl is Mexican, and the brief encounter immediately went viral.

Finally, a video was also shared on social media showing Robert Prevost blessing the streets of Chiclayo, Peru, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Similarly, journalist Armando Guzmán added a video with a photo of the young Prevost at his eighth-grade graduation from St. Mary of the Assumption School.