New Pope Leo XIV celebrated at mass by LA Archbishop Gomez

LA Archbishop to celebrate mass for new pope

Archbishop José H. Gomez will preside at a Mass of Thanksgiving at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels Friday to celebrate the election of Pope Leo XIV -- one day after Chicago native Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost made history as the first American ever elected leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

LOS ANGELES - Archbishop José H. Gomez led a Mass of Thanksgiving at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels to celebrate the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope. 

What we know:

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, was elected as Pope Leo XIV on Thursday, becoming the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. 

The election took place during the conclave of 133 cardinals at the Vatican. 

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Prevost, 69, has a background as a missionary in Peru and led the Vatican's Office of Bishops.

Pope Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at age 88. 

Gomez was joined by auxiliary bishops and other clergy from across the L.A. archdiocese "to pray and welcome the Holy Father from the local church in Southern California," the archdiocese said.

The backstory:

Prevost's election marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church, as he is the first American pope. 

His career includes significant missionary work in Peru and leadership within the Vatican. 

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles and various leaders have expressed hope and support for Pope Leo XIV's leadership.

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What they're saying:

Archbishop José H. Gomez praised the selection, emphasizing the universal mission of the Catholic Church. Local leaders, including Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath and Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson, expressed optimism for Pope Leo XIV's leadership. 

Diocese of Orange Bishop Kevin Vann and others highlighted his commitment to faith and integrity.

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What's next:

Friday's Mass - the archdiocese's official observance marking the election of the new Holy Father -- is scheduled for 12:10 p.m. and will be livestreamed at youtube.com/user/olacathedral.