Americans in St. Peter's Square, surprised by new pope, express their hopes

Standing alongside Wade was Owen McSpadd, a 21-year-old from Dallas, currently studying abroad in Rome. For McSpadd, witnessing the papal election firsthand during a Jubilee Year was nothing short of surreal. "It's a surreal feeling to be able to be here not only on Jubilee, but also to see this whole process and an American pope," he shared, adding his hopes for a positive global impact.

McSpadd, who has watched the papal election unfold, expressed optimism that the new pope could serve as a moral beacon — not just for Catholics, but for America as well. "I just hope that he's a good representative. You know, a better representative of America than our, you know, some of our politicians," he said.

"But hopefully this can set some light in America."

As the two young Americans watched the celebration continue, their hopes underscored the significance of the moment — not just for Catholics, but for a world seeking compassion and change.

Megan Schultz, a 34-year-old nurse from Chicago, held her rosary tightly as she spoke. "I flew here the moment I heard the conclave was happening," she said. "I just had this feeling that something big was going to happen. An American pope ... I'm praying he brings a spirit of renewal. We need healing, not just in the church but in the world."

For James Callahan, a retired firefighter from Boston, the moment felt personal. "To see an American leading the church now ... it feels like hope. Real hope," he said, his voice thick with emotion.

Beside him stood Emily Navarro, a 26-year-old teacher from San Francisco, currently traveling in Europe. "I didn't plan to be here," she laughed, holding a Vatican flag. "But I'm glad I am. I think this is a chance for the church to really embrace younger generations. We want to be heard."

Thomas Greene, a software engineer from Seattle, expressed optimism for modernization within the church. "I'm hopeful he'll address the real issues — transparency, technology, connecting with people where they are," he said. "We need to move forward, not stay stuck in the past."

For Maria Lopez, a 42-year-old mother of three from Miami, the election brought tears. "I brought my children all the way here to see this," she said, wiping her eyes. "I want them to witness history, to see that faith matters, that it's alive."

David Chun, a business owner from Long Island, New York, saw the election as a call to unity. "We're divided back home," he noted. "If the pope can help bridge those gaps, maybe there's hope for all of us to do the same."

Katherine Miliband, 29, a doctoral student studying religious studies, saw deeper theological significance. "This is a turning point," she said. "The church has an opportunity to redefine its mission in a way that truly reflects Christ's love."

And finally, Robert Martin, a Vietnam War veteran from Houston, stood with a quiet smile. "I've seen a lot in my life," he said simply. "But I never thought I'd live to see an American pope. Maybe it's time for some good news."

Brennan Hewitt and his mom Kathy Hewitt never imagined an American pope walking into the balcony.

"We couldn't stop crying," said Kathy Hewitt after hearing who the new pope was. "I’m so moved."

The Catholic son and mom from Philadelphia had wanted to be part of the history of their faith when they decided to extend their vacation after hearing the conclave dates were around the time they were supposed to leave."

This is so unexpected," said Brennan, who has been studying in Rome since January and had started a vacation with his mom after finishing up a university semester in Rome.

At the plaza facing St. Peter's Basilica the two had been waving two small U.S flags as they waited for a signal of the new pope to come.

"I have no words," said Kathy Hewitt.

Contributing to this story was Rhina Guidos.