Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., has been elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, he becomes the first American to ascend to the papacy. His election marks a significant moment in the Church’s history, reflecting a blend of American heritage and global ecclesiastical experience.
Prevost’s academic journey began at Villanova University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1977. Later that year, he entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) in the Province of Our Lady of Good Counsel in St. Louis.
He professed his solemn vows in 1981 and was ordained a priest on June 19, 1982. His theological studies included a Master of Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and advanced degrees in canon law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome .
In 1985, Prevost was assigned to missionary work in Chulucanas, Peru. His dedication to the Peruvian Church led him to various roles, including community prior, director of formation, and professor at the San Carlos e San Marcelo Major Seminary in Trujillo. He also served as judicial vicar in the Archdiocese of Trujillo .
His deep connection to Peru culminated in his naturalization as a Peruvian citizen in 2015.
Prevost’s leadership within the Augustinian Order was notable. He served as Provincial Prior of the “Mother of Good Counsel” province in Chicago from 1999 to 2001 and as Prior General of the Order from 2001 to 2013 . In 2014, he was appointed Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, and was ordained a bishop on December 12, 2014 .
His service to the Church continued with significant roles in the Vatican. In 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He was created a cardinal in the same year.
As Pope Leo XIV, Prevost inherits a Church navigating complex global challenges. His experience in pastoral care, administrative leadership, and international relations positions him to address issues such as secularization, interfaith dialogue, and Church reform. His election reflects a commitment to continuity with the reforms initiated by Pope Francis, emphasizing unity, peace, and the Church’s mission in the modern world.
Pope Leo XIV’s first public message, delivered from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, expressed gratitude, humility, and a firm commitment to global peace and unity.
He also paid tribute to his former diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, highlighting the importance of bridging divides and being disciples of Christ in a world in need of light and divine love.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost’s elevation to the papacy is a testament to his lifelong dedication to the Church and its mission.
As Pope Leo XIV, he embarks on a new chapter, guiding the Catholic Church with wisdom, compassion and a deep sense of service.
