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VATICAN CITY — In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected as the 267th pope on May 8, 2025, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American-born Augustinian friar to ascend to the papacy.
Prevost, 69, addressed the faithful from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica with the words, “Peace be with all of you,” emphasizing themes of unity and continuity with his predecessor, Pope Francis. He honored Francis’s legacy and declared, “Evil will not prevail.”
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Prevost earned a degree in mathematics from Villanova University in 1977. He joined the Augustinian Order and was ordained in 1982. His missionary work took him to Peru, where he served in various roles, including Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023. In 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, overseeing global episcopal appointments.
Pope Leo XIV’s election followed a two-day conclave, culminating in his selection after four rounds of voting. His papacy begins amid challenges such as addressing sexual abuse scandals, navigating LGBTQ+ issues, and promoting gender equality within the Church. His diverse background and experience in both North and South America position him as a bridge between different cultures and perspectives within the global Catholic community.
As he embarks on his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV is expected to continue the Church’s mission of peace and unity, drawing from his extensive pastoral and administrative experience.
- hector pascua/picture: vaticannews.va
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