Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, became the 267th pope of the Catholic Church on May 8, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis. He is the first American-born pontiff and the first from the Order of Saint Augustine.
Prevost’s early clerical career was marked by extensive missionary work in Peru, where he served in various roles including parish pastor, seminary teacher, and diocesan official. He later became the Bishop of Chiclayo and was appointed by Pope Francis as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023.
Known for his moderate stance and dedication to social justice, Pope Leo XIV chose his papal name in homage to Pope Leo XIII, reflecting a commitment to workers’ rights and the Church’s social teachings. In his first address, he emphasized unity and peace, pledging to work for a united Church faithful to Jesus and the Gospel.
His election has been met with enthusiasm, particularly in the United States, where Catholics see his papacy as a symbol of unity and hope for the Church’s future.
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