On May 8, 2025, history was made in Vatican City when Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago-born Augustinian friar, was elected as the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church, taking the papal name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement, marked by the traditional white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel and the proclamation of “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”), sent waves of excitement across the globe, particularly in the United States, where no citizen had ever ascended to the papacy. This news story delves into the life, career, and views of Robert Prevost, exploring his journey from a devout Catholic family in Dolton, Illinois, to the pinnacle of the Catholic Church, and examines the implications of his election as the first American pope.
Early Life: A Chicago Native with Deep Roots
Robert Francis Prevost, born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, grew up in the south suburb of Dolton, a community known for its tight-knit neighborhoods. Raised in a devout Catholic family, Prevost was the son of Louis Marius Prevost, of French and Italian descent, and Mildred Martínez, of Spanish descent. His parents were active members of St. Mary of the Assumption Church on Chicago’s far South Side, where his mother served in the Altar & Rosary Society. According to Linda Jorsch, a childhood acquaintance, the Prevost family “never missed church” and was deeply involved in parish life.
Prevost, affectionately known as “Bob” to friends and family, showed an early inclination toward the priesthood. His brother, John Prevost, recalled that Robert aspired to religious life from a young age. This calling led him to the Augustinian Order, a religious community inspired by the teachings of St. Augustine of Hippo, emphasizing truth, unity, and love. In 1977, at the age of 22, Prevost entered the novitiate of the Order of St. Augustine in St. Louis, Missouri, taking his first vows in 1978 and solemn vows in 1981.
Education: From Villanova to Rome
Prevost’s academic journey reflects his intellectual rigor and commitment to the Church. He graduated from Villanova University, an Augustinian Catholic institution in Pennsylvania, in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. Villanova, known for its strong academic programs and basketball prowess (notably winning the NCAA championship in 1985, long after Prevost’s time), played a pivotal role in shaping his Augustinian identity. The university later honored him with an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree in 2014.
After Villanova, Prevost pursued theological studies at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, earning a Master of Divinity in 1982. His pursuit of knowledge took him to Rome, where he studied at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum). There, he earned a Licentiate of Canon Law in 1984 and a Doctorate in Canon Law in 1987, with a thesis titled “The Role of the Local Prior in the Order of Saint Augustine.” His multilingual abilities—fluency in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese, with reading knowledge of Latin and German—further equipped him for global ministry.
A Missionary in Peru: The “Latin Yankee”
Ordained a priest on June 19, 1982, by Archbishop Jean Jadot in Rome, Prevost’s early ministry was marked by his missionary work in Peru. From 1985 to 1986 and again from 1988 to 1998, he served in the Augustinian missions in Chulucanas and Trujillo, Peru, working as a parish pastor, diocesan official, seminary teacher, and administrator. In 2015, Prevost became a naturalized citizen of Peru, a testament to his love for the country.
In Trujillo, he ran an Augustinian seminary, teaching canon law and fostering native Peruvian vocations. His work in Peru’s poorest regions, including Chiclayo, where he served as bishop from 2015 to 2023, aligned with the pastoral priorities of Pope Francis, whose real name is Jorge Mario Bergoglio.
Rising Through the Ranks: Augustinian Leadership and Vatican Roles
Prevost’s leadership within the Augustinian Order was notable. In 1999, he was elected Provincial Prior of the Augustinian Province of “Mother of Good Counsel” in Chicago. Two years later, in 2001, he was elected Prior General of the worldwide Augustinian Order, a position he held until 2013. This role required extensive travel to nearly 50 countries, honing his skills in global governance and pastoral care.
In 2014, Pope Francis, elected in 2013 at the age of 76, appointed Prevost as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, and later as its bishop. His tenure was marked by effective administration and a commitment to synodality, a process of inclusive decision-making championed by Francis. In 2023, Francis elevated Prevost to cardinal and appointed him Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful Vatican office responsible for recommending episcopal candidates worldwide. He also served as President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, amplifying his influence in a region home to nearly 40% of the world’s Catholics.
The 2025 Papal Conclave: A Historic Election
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at age 88, the College of Cardinals convened in Vatican City for the 2025 papal conclave. The process of electing a pope, rooted in centuries-old tradition, involves cardinals under 80 voting in secret ballots until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority. On May 8, 2025, after just four ballots over two days, white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the protodeacon, announced “Habemus Papam!” from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, revealing that Cardinal Robert Prevost had been chosen and had taken the name Pope Leo XIV.
The choice of the name Leo XIV was significant. The last pope to bear the name, Pope Leo XIII (1878–1903), was known for his encyclical Rerum Novarum, which laid the foundation for modern Catholic social teaching by addressing workers’ rights and social justice. Prevost’s selection of this name signaled his intent to continue the Church’s commitment to social issues, a nod to both Leo XIII and Pope Leo I (440–461), known as Leo the Great, who famously persuaded Attila the Hun to spare Rome.
Who Is Pope Leo XIV?
Pope Leo XIV, now 69 years old, is the first American pope and the first Augustinian pope in the Church’s history. He is also the first pope to hold dual citizenship (United States and Peru) and the first from an English-speaking country since Pope Adrian IV in the 12th century. His election broke a long-standing Vatican reluctance to choose a pope from a global superpower like the United States, a concern rooted in fears of political influence. However, Prevost’s extensive experience in Peru and his alignment with Francis’s reforms mitigated these concerns.
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How old is the new pope? At 69, Robert Prevost is relatively young for a pontiff, suggesting a potentially long papacy. For comparison, Pope Francis was 76 when elected, and Pope Benedict XVI, who preceded Francis, was 78. Who was the first pope? According to tradition, St. Peter, one of Jesus’s apostles, is considered the first pope, establishing the papacy’s apostolic succession.
Where is the new pope from? Born in Chicago, Prevost hails from Dolton, Illinois, a suburb known for its working-class roots. His Midwestern upbringing, combined with decades in Peru, makes him a bridge between North and South America. Where was the new pope born? His birthplace, Chicago, celebrated his election with pride, with Mayor Brandon Johnson tweeting, “Everything dope, including the Pope, comes from Chicago!”
What Does the Pope Do?
As the pontiff, Pope Leo XIV serves as the spiritual leader of over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, the sovereign of Vatican City, and the Bishop of Rome. His responsibilities include guiding Church doctrine, appointing bishops, issuing encyclicals, and promoting unity among the faithful. The pope’s role extends to diplomacy, interfaith dialogue, and addressing global issues like poverty, migration, and climate change. What is Pope Leo XIV known for? Early in his papacy, he is recognized for his humility, pastoral approach, and commitment to continuing Francis’s reforms, particularly in synodality and outreach to the marginalized.
Pope Leo XIV’s first speech from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica emphasized peace and unity. Speaking in Italian, Spanish, and Latin, he said, “Peace be with you all,” urging the faithful to “move forward, without fear, united, hand in hand with God and with each other.” He paid tribute to Pope Francis, whose legacy of compassion and inclusivity he vowed to uphold.
Robert Prevost’s Views: A Moderate Voice
Robert Prevost’s political views and theological stances are often described as moderate or centrist, making him a “dignified middle of the road” candidate. Is the new pope conservative or liberal? Prevost defies strict categorization. He aligns with Pope Francis’s progressive vision on issues like migration, poverty, and the environment but holds traditional views on matters like abortion, euthanasia, and the death penalty. As bishop of Chiclayo, he opposed “gender ideology” in Peruvian school curricula, arguing it promoted “genders that don’t exist.”
Robert Prevost’s views on LGBTQ issues are less explicit. While he supports Francis’s emphasis on pastoral inclusivity, such as Communion for divorced and remarried Catholics, he has not publicly endorsed progressive stances like same-sex marriage or female deacons. His focus remains on evangelization and service, as he stated in a 2023 Vatican News interview: “The bishop is not supposed to be a little prince sitting in his kingdom, but is called authentically to be humble, to walk with the people he serves.”
Is Robert Prevost conservative or liberal? His actions suggest a balance. On social media, Prevost expressed sympathy for George Floyd and criticized U.S. immigration policies under President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, drawing ire from conservative factions who labeled him a “woke Marxist pope.” However, his voting record—Democratic primaries in 2008 and 2010, Republican primaries in 2012, 2014, and 2016, with no party affiliation—indicates a nonpartisan approach.
Robert Prevost’s views on Trump have sparked controversy. His criticism of Trump’s immigration policies and Vance’s rhetoric aligns with Francis’s call for compassion toward migrants. Yet, Prevost’s emphasis on Church tradition and social justice appeals to both progressive and conservative cardinals, making him a compromise candidate.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite his reputation for humility and competence, Prevost has faced scrutiny. In Peru, three women alleged in 2022 that he failed to act decisively against a priest accused of sexually abusing minors. The Diocese of Chiclayo denied the accusations, stating that Prevost met with the victims, suspended the priest, and forwarded the case to the Vatican, which found insufficient evidence to proceed. A similar case from his time leading the Augustinian Province of Chicago in the late 1990s raised questions about his handling of abuse allegations. Critics argue that such issues reflect systemic challenges in the Church, while supporters note that Prevost’s record is not unique among senior clergy.
The election of an American pope has also drawn political reactions. Trump and his supporters expressed mixed feelings, with some celebrating national pride but others decrying Prevost’s perceived liberalism. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney congratulated Pope Leo XIV, emphasizing his potential to foster dialogue and compassion.
The Significance of an Augustinian Pope
As the first Augustinian pope, Pope Leo XIV brings the charism of the Order of St. Augustine to the papacy. The Augustinians, founded in the 13th century, are known for their “restlessness” toward God, a concept rooted in St. Augustine’s famous quote: “Our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” Only six popes before Leo XIV were Augustinians, making his election a rare milestone.
Villanova University, where Prevost studied, celebrated his election. President Rev. Peter M. Donohue said, “Known for his humility, gentle spirit, prudence, and warmth, Pope Leo XIV’s leadership offers an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to our educational mission.” The university’s connection to the 2005 World Series champion Chicago White Sox, whom Prevost supports (unlike his parents’ split loyalty between the Cubs and Cardinals), added a lighthearted local touch to the celebrations.
The Road Ahead: A Pope for a Divided World
What nationality is the new pope? Pope Leo XIV holds dual American and Peruvian citizenship, reflecting his global perspective. Robert Prevost’s ethnicity—French, Italian, and Spanish—further underscores his diverse heritage. His papacy comes at a time of global challenges, including wars, migration, climate change, and ideological divides within the Church.
What does Pope Leo XIV believe? His vision, articulated in his inaugural address, centers on a “missionary church” that builds bridges and fosters dialogue. He has emphasized synodality, continuing Francis’s push for inclusive governance, and social justice, drawing inspiration from Rerum Novarum. His fluency in multiple languages and experience in Latin America position him to connect with diverse Catholic communities.
Has there ever been an American pope? Until 2025, the answer was no. Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a historic shift, challenging the Vatican’s historical aversion to a U.S. pontiff due to America’s geopolitical influence. His moderate stance and international experience made him an acceptable choice for the 133 cardinals, 80% of whom were appointed by Francis.
Personal Insights: The Man Behind the Papacy
Friends and colleagues describe Robert Prevost as down-to-earth, humorous, and compassionate. Rev. Fidel Purisaca Vigil, a colleague in Chiclayo, recalled Prevost’s joy and good humor, noting that he often cooked pizza for his community in Peru. Joseph Farrell, vicar general of the Augustinians, highlighted Prevost’s responsiveness, calling him “the fastest on text” and a tennis enthusiast. These personal anecdotes paint a picture of a pope who combines intellectual depth with relatability.
Robert Prevost’s family, including his brothers John Prevost and Louis Martín, remains a source of grounding. John confirmed Prevost’s lifelong fandom of the Chicago White Sox, a nod to his Chicago roots. His parents’ influence—his father as a catechist and his mother as a librarian—shaped his commitment to education and faith.
FAQs
Who is the new pope in 2025?
The new pope is Robert Francis Prevost, who took the name Pope Leo XIV upon his election on May 8, 2025. He is the first American and Augustinian pope.
How old is Pope Leo XIV?
Pope Leo XIV was born on September 14, 1955, making him 69 years old at the time of his election.
Is the new pope conservative or liberal?
Robert Prevost is considered a moderate, supporting Pope Francis’s progressive reforms on social justice and synodality while holding traditional views on issues like abortion and gender ideology.
Where is Villanova University?
Villanova University is located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. It is an Augustinian Catholic institution where Prevost earned his bachelor’s degree in 1977.
What is the significance of the name Leo XIV?
The name Leo XIV references Pope Leo XIII, known for Rerum Novarum, and Pope Leo I, who defended Rome. It signals Prevost’s focus on social justice and Church unity.
Does the pope receive a salary?
The pope does not receive a salary. As sovereign of Vatican City, his needs are provided for by the Holy See, but he takes a vow of poverty as part of his religious life.
Reference:
- CBS News: American Cardinal Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV
- CNN: Robert Prevost Elected as First American Pope
- Vatican News: Biography of Pope Leo XIV
- The Washington Post: Who Is Robert Prevost, the New Pope Leo XIV
- Villanova University: Augustinian Friar Elected Pope
