Vatican City – May 9, 2025 — In a momentous turn of events, the Roman Catholic Church has elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, as the 267th pontiff, who will now be known as Pope Leo XIV . The announcement was made following the traditional white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling the conclusion of the papal conclave convened after the death (or resignation) of his predecessor. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV becomes one of the few American-born popes in the Church's long history. His election has been met with both surprise and admiration, especially given his longstanding service as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops , where he played a pivotal role in overseeing the global appointment of bishops — a role requiring discernment, diplomacy, and doctrinal sensitivity. A Shepherd with Depth and Vision Known for his pastoral heart, humility , and scholarly depth , Pope Leo XIV has long been regarded as a bridge-builder — someone capable of...

  Introduction Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, served as the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 2013 until his death in 2025. His papacy was marked by a commitment to humility, social justice, and a desire to bring the Church closer to the marginalized. As the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope, Francis brought a unique perspective to the papacy, emphasizing mercy, environmental stewardship, and interfaith dialogue. Early Life and Formation Childhood and Education Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrants Mario José Bergoglio and Regina María Sívori. He was the eldest of five children. His father worked as a railway accountant, and his mother was a homemaker. Growing up in the Flores neighborhood, Bergoglio developed a strong sense of community and faith. After completing his secondary education, he earned a diploma as a chemical technician. However, his spiritual calling led ...

  Great leadership isn't just about managing people—it’s about inspiring, innovating, and adapting to change. Whether you're a CEO, entrepreneur, manager, or aspiring leader, reading the best leadership books can help you sharpen your skills, develop a strong mindset, and guide your team toward success. Here are 20 must-read leadership books , along with details about their authors, country, genre, publication year, and why they deserve a spot on your bookshelf. 1. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey Author: Stephen R. Covey (United States) Published: 1989 Genre: Leadership, Personal Development Language: English About the Author: Covey was an educator, author, businessman, and leadership expert who specialized in personal effectiveness. Why Read It?: Teaches seven fundamental habits that lead to personal and professional success. 2. Leaders Eat Last – Simon Sinek Author: Simon Sin...