In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. His election marks the first time an American-born prelate has ascended to the papacy .
A Journey from Chicago to the Vatican
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost was raised in the South Side neighborhood of Dolton. He began his religious journey at St. Mary of the Assumption Church and later joined the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977. Ordained as a priest in 1982, he earned a doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome .
Missionary Work in Peru
Prevost dedicated much of his early ministry to missionary work in Peru, serving in various roles including parish pastor, seminary teacher, and diocesan official. He was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo in 2015 and later served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, overseeing the appointment of bishops worldwide .
Election as Pope Leo XIV
The College of Cardinals elected Prevost on May 8, 2025, after white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel chimney at 6:07 p.m. local time, signaling the successful conclusion of the papal conclave. Moments later, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the faithful and deliver his first blessing .
A Vision for the Church
In his first address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized unity and outreach, stating, “We can be a missionary church, a church that builds bridges, that is always open to receive everyone… to welcome everyone, in charity, dialogue, and love” .
Significance of His Election
Pope Leo XIV’s election is significant not only because he is the first American pope but also due to his extensive experience in both missionary work and Vatican administration. His background suggests a continued emphasis on global outreach and pastoral care within the Church.
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, Catholics around the world look forward to his leadership and the direction he will set for the Church in the years to come.
Sources:
• AP News
• Reuters
• The Vatican Press Office
• The Washington Post
