On May 8, 2025, the Catholic Church witnessed a historic moment as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the 267th pontiff, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. As the first American-born pope and a dual citizen of the United States and Peru, his election marks a new chapter—one shaped by his deep pastoral experience, global outlook, and commitment to social justice.
Pope Leo XIV's election is historic not only because of his nationalities but because of what it symbolizes: the Church’s growing inclusivity and its embrace of a truly global identity. As the Church continues to expand in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, the elevation of a pope who has ministered on two continents represents the Church’s universality.
Born in 1955 in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost was raised in a devout Catholic family with deep roots in both North and Latin American traditions. He joined the Order of Saint Augustine and was ordained a priest in 1982. His vocation quickly led him to Peru, in 1985 where he spent decades working with indigenous communities in remote dioceses, ministering to the poor, and advocating for human rights.
Pope Leo XIV combines intellectual rigor with pastoral sensitivity. He holds degrees from Villanova University, Catholic Theological Union, and a Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas. Fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, he has served in numerous leadership roles, including Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, Prior General of the Augustinian Order, Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. These roles gave him rare insight into the challenges facing the global Church, from vocations and governance to migration and evangelization.
The choice of the name “Leo XIV” is a nod to Pope Leo XIII, who was known for his groundbreaking 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, which emphasized the dignity of labor and the Church's responsibility to address economic injustice. Pope Leo XIV has signaled his intention to build upon this legacy. In his inaugural address in St. Peter’s Square, he said: “We are called not to retreat from the world’s problems, but to walk humbly into its wounds—bearing Christ’s mercy and the Gospel’s truth.”
From his time in Peru to his recent work as a Vatican official, Pope Leo XIV has consistently championed the rights of migrants, the poor, and the excluded. He has spoken about climate change, indigenous rights, and economic systems that prioritize human dignity.
His early homilies as pope have emphasized that "Church that listens before it speaks", and a leadership style grounded in collaboration with bishops, laypeople, and religious communities.
The new pope assumes the papacy at a pivotal moment. There are powerful signs of renewal—from the growth of vibrant faith communities in the Global South to increasing lay involvement in parish life.
Pope Leo XIV has already begun to outline a vision for the Church rooted in synodality—a call for shared discernment and governance. He has reaffirmed commitments to interfaith dialogue, environmental stewardship, and a more inclusive pastoral approach.
In his first press conference as pope, Leo XIV expressed particular concern for young people, urging the Church to be more present in the digital space: “If Christ walked among us today, He would not avoid social media—He would proclaim hope there too.”
With one foot in North America and the other in Latin America, Pope Leo XIV may serve as a bridge between hemispheres, uniting the Church under a renewed mission of mercy, justice, and truth. His blend of pastoral warmth, theological depth, and international experience foreshadows a papacy uniquely suited to guide the Church through the complex moral and spiritual terrain of our century.
Almighty God, we thank you for the gift of Pope Leo XIV, a shepherd called to lead Your people with wisdom and compassion. Strengthen him with courage to speak truth, with humility to listen deeply, and with joy to proclaim Your Gospel. May his papacy be a light to the nations and a beacon of hope to the poor, the lost, and the weary. Guide the Church through his leadership and unite us in your eternal love. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
May his papacy be a light to the nations and a beacon of hope to the poor, the lost, and the weary.
Sadlier joins the faithful around the world in welcoming Pope Leo XIV with joy and prayer. May the Holy Spirit guide him as he leads the Church with wisdom, humility, and compassion.
