Catalina Espinosa
Research expert covering society, economy, and politics for Europe and the EU
The Catholic Church - statistics & facts
On May 8, 2025, cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected Pope with the name Leo XIV. Born in Chicago, he is the first American pope in history and the 267th leader of the Catholic Church, the world鈥檚 largest Christian denomination. Founded in the first century CE following the teachings of Jesus Christ, whom the Pope represents as his vicar, the Church is centered in Rome. Vatican City, the smallest state in the world, is located within the Italian capital, and ensures the international independence of the Holy See, the Church鈥檚 governing body. Following Pope Francis鈥 death, the College of Cardinals assembled in the Papal Conclave that elected cardinal Prevost as his successor. Although the number of Catholics is increasing globally, Leo XIV and the Catholic Church will still face major challenges internationally. For example, Christianity is in decline in the West, while Evangelicalism is on the rise in South America; the Holy See has substantial financial difficulties; and Pope Francis was an important voice regarding geopolitical issues, such as Gaza, Ukraine, and refugee crises.
