A Humble Beginning in Chicago
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost grew up in the south suburban village of Dolton, part of a devout Catholic family of French, Italian, and Spanish descent. His parents were active members of St. Mary of the Assumption parish, with his mother involved in the Altar & Rosary Society. According to childhood acquaintance Linda Jorsch, the Prevost family “never missed church” and were deeply engaged in their parish community. This environment nurtured Prevost’s early faith, planting the seeds for his eventual calling to the priesthood.
Prevost’s academic journey began at the Minor Seminary of the Augustinian Fathers, followed by a degree in mathematics from Villanova University in 1977, one of only two Augustinian Catholic universities in the United States. He later pursued theological studies at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, earning a Master of Divinity, and continued his education in Rome, obtaining a Licentiate and Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) by 1987. His intellectual rigor and multilingual fluency in English, Spanish, and Italian would later prove instrumental in his global ministry.
A Missionary’s Heart: Service in Peru
While Prevost’s roots were firmly American, his heart was drawn to the global Church. In 1977, he joined the Order of St. Augustine, a religious order founded in the 13th century with a mission to live simply and serve the poor. He took his first vows in 1978, solemn vows in 1981, and was ordained a priest in 1982. Prevost’s early career took him to Peru in 1985, where he served as a missionary, parish pastor, and educator for over two decades. His work in the northern Peruvian diocese of Chiclayo, a city of about 600,000, left a lasting impact. He became a naturalized Peruvian citizen in 2015, reflecting his deep connection to the region.
Prevost’s ministry in Peru was marked by humility and compassion. He served as chancellor of the Territorial Prelature of Chulucanas (1985–1986), taught canon law and moral theology, and later became bishop (2015–2023) and archbishop of Chiclayo. His care for marginalized communities, including Venezuelan refugees, earned him admiration. In a 2023 statement, Prevost expressed sympathy for George Floyd’s murder, highlighting his sensitivity to social justice issues. His global perspective, honed in Peru, made him the “least American” of the U.S. cardinals in the eyes of Vatican insiders, mitigating concerns about U.S. geopolitical influence.
Rising Through the Ranks
Prevost’s leadership within the Augustinian order propelled him to prominence. From 2001 to 2013, he served as Prior General of the Augustinians, overseeing the order’s global operations. His tenure demonstrated administrative acumen and a commitment to the order’s ethos of harmony and service. In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him apostolic administrator and later bishop of Chiclayo, recognizing his pastoral and organizational skills. By 2023, Francis elevated Prevost to cardinal and appointed him prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful Vatican office responsible for vetting bishop nominations worldwide. This role gave Prevost unparalleled influence and visibility among the College of Cardinals.
The election of an American pope was long considered unlikely due to the United States’ global political and economic dominance. Vatican watchers speculated that cardinals would avoid selecting a pontiff from a superpower to prevent perceptions of geopolitical bias. However, Prevost’s extensive international experience, particularly in Latin America, and his Peruvian citizenship helped overcome this taboo. As CNN Vatican analyst Elise Allen noted, Prevost’s decades abroad made him “attentive to the needs of a global church.”
The 2025 conclave, following Pope Francis’ death on April 21, was the largest and most diverse in history, with cardinals from 70 countries, many appointed by Francis. Prevost’s election defied expectations, as other candidates, including non-Americans, were initially favored. The swift decision mirroring the timelines of Francis (2013) and Benedict XVI (2005) indicated a unified conclave, likely driven by Prevost’s reputation for diplomacy and continuity with Francis’ reforms.
A New Papal Name: Leo XIV
Upon his election, Prevost chose the name Leo XIV, invoking the legacy of Pope Leo XIII (1878–1903), known for his encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed workers’ rights and laid the foundation for modern Catholic social teaching. The choice signals Prevost’s intent to prioritize social justice, a theme consistent with his career and Francis’ papacy. Vatican observers, including Kurt Martens of The Catholic University of America, noted that the name also suggests continuity with Francis’ focus on the poor and marginalized.
In his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV greeted the crowd with “Peace be with you all,” speaking in Italian and Spanish but notably not English. He paid tribute to Francis, urging Catholics to remember his legacy of unity, and outlined his vision for a “missionary church” that “builds bridges and dialogue.” His call for charity and peace resonated with the thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, who erupted in cheers.
A Global Vision Rooted in Faith
Pope Leo XIV’s first homily, delivered during Mass in the Sistine Chapel on May 9, 2025, underscored his priorities. Speaking in English and Italian, he warned against prioritizing “technology, money, success, power, or pleasure” over Christian faith, urging the Church to “light the dark nights of this world.” He described his role as “carrying the cross” of leadership, a nod to the immense responsibility of guiding the Church amid global challenges, including wars, climate change, and internal divisions.
Leo’s past statements offer clues to his agenda. He has advocated for stronger Catholic action on climate change, criticizing “tyrannical” dominion over nature. His focus on social justice aligns with Francis’ emphasis on the poor, migrants, and environmental stewardship. However, Leo has expressed conservative views on certain issues, opposing women’s ordination to the diaconate in 2023, arguing it could create “new problems.” He also criticized the practicality of Francis’ 2023 declaration allowing blessings for same-sex couples in regions where homosexuality is illegal, reflecting a cautious approach to progressive reforms.
Challenges Ahead
As the first American pope, Leo XIV faces unique challenges. In the United States, the Catholic Church is deeply divided between progressive and conservative factions, with some right-wing Catholics opposing Francis’ reforms. Leo’s election could bridge this divide, but his past criticism of U.S. political figures, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, has already sparked controversy. Social media posts from his cardinal days, resharing articles critical of Trump’s immigration policies and Vance’s interpretation of Christian love, have drawn ire from MAGA supporters, who labeled him a “woke Marxist pope.”
Globally, Leo must navigate a Church grappling with declining attendance in the West, growth in Africa and Asia, and the lingering shadow of clerical abuse scandals. The U.S.-based advocacy group SNAP expressed “grave concern” over his election, citing unverified allegations that Prevost failed to act against predatory priests in Chicago and Peru. These claims, if substantiated, could pose a significant hurdle.
A Historic Moment for America and the Church
The election of Pope Leo XIV has elicited widespread celebration, particularly in his hometown of Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson called it “one of the biggest moments in the modern history of our city,” praising Leo’s advocacy for workers and the vulnerable. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker described it as a “historic moment” for compassion and unity. Even the Chicago White Sox, noting Leo’s fandom, sent a personalized jersey to the Vatican, while the Cubs good-naturedly congratulated him despite a mix-up about his allegiance.
World leaders, from U.S. President Donald Trump to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, extended congratulations, emphasizing Leo’s potential to foster peace and solidarity. American Cardinal Timothy Dolan expressed hope that Leo would “build bridges” with global leaders, including Trump, reinforcing the pontiff’s role as a unifier.
Looking Forward
Pope Leo XIV’s papacy, rooted in his Augustinian values of humility and service, promises to continue Francis’ legacy while carving a distinct path. His inaugural Mass on May 18, 2025, and first general audience on May 21 will offer further insight into his vision. As the first American and Augustinian pope, Leo XIV stands at a crossroads, tasked with uniting a fractured Church and addressing global crises. His election is a bold step for the Catholic Church, reflecting its evolving global identity and the enduring power of faith to transcend borders.
In the words of Villanova University’s Rev. Peter Donohue, Leo’s leadership offers “an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to our educational mission” of faith and reason. For Catholics worldwide, and particularly for Americans, Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate is a moment of exhilaration, hope, and profound responsibility.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost grew up in the south suburban village of Dolton, part of a devout Catholic family of French, Italian, and Spanish descent. His parents were active members of St. Mary of the Assumption parish, with his mother involved in the Altar & Rosary Society. According to childhood acquaintance Linda Jorsch, the Prevost family “never missed church” and were deeply engaged in their parish community. This environment nurtured Prevost’s early faith, planting the seeds for his eventual calling to the priesthood.
Prevost’s academic journey began at the Minor Seminary of the Augustinian Fathers, followed by a degree in mathematics from Villanova University in 1977, one of only two Augustinian Catholic universities in the United States. He later pursued theological studies at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, earning a Master of Divinity, and continued his education in Rome, obtaining a Licentiate and Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) by 1987. His intellectual rigor and multilingual fluency in English, Spanish, and Italian would later prove instrumental in his global ministry.
A Missionary’s Heart: Service in Peru
While Prevost’s roots were firmly American, his heart was drawn to the global Church. In 1977, he joined the Order of St. Augustine, a religious order founded in the 13th century with a mission to live simply and serve the poor. He took his first vows in 1978, solemn vows in 1981, and was ordained a priest in 1982. Prevost’s early career took him to Peru in 1985, where he served as a missionary, parish pastor, and educator for over two decades. His work in the northern Peruvian diocese of Chiclayo, a city of about 600,000, left a lasting impact. He became a naturalized Peruvian citizen in 2015, reflecting his deep connection to the region.
Prevost’s ministry in Peru was marked by humility and compassion. He served as chancellor of the Territorial Prelature of Chulucanas (1985–1986), taught canon law and moral theology, and later became bishop (2015–2023) and archbishop of Chiclayo. His care for marginalized communities, including Venezuelan refugees, earned him admiration. In a 2023 statement, Prevost expressed sympathy for George Floyd’s murder, highlighting his sensitivity to social justice issues. His global perspective, honed in Peru, made him the “least American” of the U.S. cardinals in the eyes of Vatican insiders, mitigating concerns about U.S. geopolitical influence.
Rising Through the Ranks
Prevost’s leadership within the Augustinian order propelled him to prominence. From 2001 to 2013, he served as Prior General of the Augustinians, overseeing the order’s global operations. His tenure demonstrated administrative acumen and a commitment to the order’s ethos of harmony and service. In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him apostolic administrator and later bishop of Chiclayo, recognizing his pastoral and organizational skills. By 2023, Francis elevated Prevost to cardinal and appointed him prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful Vatican office responsible for vetting bishop nominations worldwide. This role gave Prevost unparalleled influence and visibility among the College of Cardinals.
Prevost’s close relationship with Pope Francis was evident. Francis respected him highly, appointing him president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America alongside his Dicastery role. Prevost’s alignment with Francis’ vision of a more inclusive, missionary Church positioned him as a natural successor. His election on the second day of the 2025 conclave, after just four ballots, suggests he quickly garnered the required two-thirds majority of the 133 voting cardinals, a testament to his reputation as a balanced and capable leader.
The Election: Breaking the American Taboo
The election of an American pope was long considered unlikely due to the United States’ global political and economic dominance. Vatican watchers speculated that cardinals would avoid selecting a pontiff from a superpower to prevent perceptions of geopolitical bias. However, Prevost’s extensive international experience, particularly in Latin America, and his Peruvian citizenship helped overcome this taboo. As CNN Vatican analyst Elise Allen noted, Prevost’s decades abroad made him “attentive to the needs of a global church.”
The 2025 conclave, following Pope Francis’ death on April 21, was the largest and most diverse in history, with cardinals from 70 countries, many appointed by Francis. Prevost’s election defied expectations, as other candidates, including non-Americans, were initially favored. The swift decision mirroring the timelines of Francis (2013) and Benedict XVI (2005) indicated a unified conclave, likely driven by Prevost’s reputation for diplomacy and continuity with Francis’ reforms.
A New Papal Name: Leo XIV
Upon his election, Prevost chose the name Leo XIV, invoking the legacy of Pope Leo XIII (1878–1903), known for his encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed workers’ rights and laid the foundation for modern Catholic social teaching. The choice signals Prevost’s intent to prioritize social justice, a theme consistent with his career and Francis’ papacy. Vatican observers, including Kurt Martens of The Catholic University of America, noted that the name also suggests continuity with Francis’ focus on the poor and marginalized.
In his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV greeted the crowd with “Peace be with you all,” speaking in Italian and Spanish but notably not English. He paid tribute to Francis, urging Catholics to remember his legacy of unity, and outlined his vision for a “missionary church” that “builds bridges and dialogue.” His call for charity and peace resonated with the thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, who erupted in cheers.
A Global Vision Rooted in Faith
Pope Leo XIV’s first homily, delivered during Mass in the Sistine Chapel on May 9, 2025, underscored his priorities. Speaking in English and Italian, he warned against prioritizing “technology, money, success, power, or pleasure” over Christian faith, urging the Church to “light the dark nights of this world.” He described his role as “carrying the cross” of leadership, a nod to the immense responsibility of guiding the Church amid global challenges, including wars, climate change, and internal divisions.
Leo’s past statements offer clues to his agenda. He has advocated for stronger Catholic action on climate change, criticizing “tyrannical” dominion over nature. His focus on social justice aligns with Francis’ emphasis on the poor, migrants, and environmental stewardship. However, Leo has expressed conservative views on certain issues, opposing women’s ordination to the diaconate in 2023, arguing it could create “new problems.” He also criticized the practicality of Francis’ 2023 declaration allowing blessings for same-sex couples in regions where homosexuality is illegal, reflecting a cautious approach to progressive reforms.
Challenges Ahead
As the first American pope, Leo XIV faces unique challenges. In the United States, the Catholic Church is deeply divided between progressive and conservative factions, with some right-wing Catholics opposing Francis’ reforms. Leo’s election could bridge this divide, but his past criticism of U.S. political figures, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, has already sparked controversy. Social media posts from his cardinal days, resharing articles critical of Trump’s immigration policies and Vance’s interpretation of Christian love, have drawn ire from MAGA supporters, who labeled him a “woke Marxist pope.”
Globally, Leo must navigate a Church grappling with declining attendance in the West, growth in Africa and Asia, and the lingering shadow of clerical abuse scandals. The U.S.-based advocacy group SNAP expressed “grave concern” over his election, citing unverified allegations that Prevost failed to act against predatory priests in Chicago and Peru. These claims, if substantiated, could pose a significant hurdle.
A Historic Moment for America and the Church
The election of Pope Leo XIV has elicited widespread celebration, particularly in his hometown of Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson called it “one of the biggest moments in the modern history of our city,” praising Leo’s advocacy for workers and the vulnerable. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker described it as a “historic moment” for compassion and unity. Even the Chicago White Sox, noting Leo’s fandom, sent a personalized jersey to the Vatican, while the Cubs good-naturedly congratulated him despite a mix-up about his allegiance.
World leaders, from U.S. President Donald Trump to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, extended congratulations, emphasizing Leo’s potential to foster peace and solidarity. American Cardinal Timothy Dolan expressed hope that Leo would “build bridges” with global leaders, including Trump, reinforcing the pontiff’s role as a unifier.
Looking Forward
Pope Leo XIV’s papacy, rooted in his Augustinian values of humility and service, promises to continue Francis’ legacy while carving a distinct path. His inaugural Mass on May 18, 2025, and first general audience on May 21 will offer further insight into his vision. As the first American and Augustinian pope, Leo XIV stands at a crossroads, tasked with uniting a fractured Church and addressing global crises. His election is a bold step for the Catholic Church, reflecting its evolving global identity and the enduring power of faith to transcend borders.
In the words of Villanova University’s Rev. Peter Donohue, Leo’s leadership offers “an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to our educational mission” of faith and reason. For Catholics worldwide, and particularly for Americans, Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate is a moment of exhilaration, hope, and profound responsibility.
