Robert Francis Prevost, an American-born cardinal, has been elected as the new pope. He took the name Pope Leo XIV following his election on May 8, 2025, after five rounds of voting by the College of Cardinals, following the death of Pope Francis.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV is often described as a moderate figure, recognized for his efforts to promote unity within the Church, similar to the approach taken by Pope Francis.
Before his election, he worked for many years as a missionary in Peru and later became the head of the Augustinian Order. His background includes both pastoral and administrative experience.
His religious formation began in 1977 when he joined the Order of Saint Augustine, taking his vows in 1981. Prior to this, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics at Villanova University in 1977.
Pope Leo XIV speaks English, Spanish, and Italian, which has supported his work in various countries and roles within the Church.
Credit : ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty
In September 2023, Pope Francis appointed him to a key position within the Augustinian Order, acknowledging his leadership and commitment to the Church.
Following his election, he addressed the public from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, delivering a message that emphasized faith, unity, and support for one another.
“God loves all people. Evil cannot exist when we are in God’s hands. If we abandon fear, if we remain united and support one another, with God by our side, we will continue to move forward,” he said.
He also spoke about the importance of dialogue and peaceful coexistence: “We are messengers of God. God walks before us. The world needs His light, and humanity needs Christ as the bridge to His love. Help us – let us help each other to build bridges through dialogue. Together, we can live in peace.”
He concluded by saying, “I am with you because I am one of you. I may have been chosen as shepherd, but I walk with you in faith.”
Pope Leo XIV now resides in Vatican City, where he begins his role as Supreme Pontiff, focusing on service, dialogue, and the responsibilities of leading the global Catholic Church.
