Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, is a historic figure in the Roman Catholic Church. On May 8, 2025, he was elected as the 267th pope of the Catholic Church, becoming the first American to hold this sacred office. His election follows the death of Pope Francis, marking a significant moment in Church history.
Early life and education
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert F. Prevost comes from a family of French, Italian, and Spanish descent. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Villanova University in 1977. In the same year, he entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) and made his solemn vows in 1981. He pursued theological studies at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and later obtained a licentiate and doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome.
Prevost’s missionary journey began in 1985 when he was assigned to Peru. Over the years, he served in various capacities, including chancellor of the Territorial Prelature of Chulucanas, community prior, director of formation, and professor of canon law in Trujillo. His work also included serving as the judicial vicar in the Archdiocese of Trujillo and teaching at the “San Carlos e San Marcelo” Major Seminary.
Leadership roles
In 1999, Prevost was elected provincial prior of the “Mother of Good Counsel” province in Chicago. Just two years later, he ascended to the role of prior general of the worldwide Augustinian Order, a position he held for two six-year terms until 2013. In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him as the apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, where he was later ordained as bishop. He served as bishop of Chiclayo until 2020 and was also appointed as the apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Callao from 2020 to 2021.
Prevost’s contributions to the Vatican began with his appointment as a member of the Congregation for the Clergy in 2019 and the Congregation for Bishops in 2020. In January 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. His leadership and commitment led to his elevation to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis in September 2023.
Papacy as Pope Leo XIV
Following the death of Pope Francis in April 2025, the papal conclave elected Robert F. Prevost as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025. His election is seen as a continuation of Pope Francis’s reforms and outreach, reflecting his extensive experience in missionary work, Church leadership, and global Catholic governance.
Pope Leo XIV is known for his moderate views, strong administrative skills, and commitment to unity within the Church. His papacy is expected to focus on promoting communion, addressing global challenges, and maintaining the spiritual integrity of the Catholic faith.
