On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American missionary and former head of the Vatican’s office of bishops, was elected as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time a U.S. citizen has ascended to the papacy in the Catholic Church’s two-millennia history. Originally from Chicago and a dual Peruvian citizen, Prevost spent much of his career in Peru and served as bishop there. During his initial address from St. Peter’s Basilica, he spoke in Italian and Spanish, calling for peace and unity and signaling continuity with Pope Francis’ policies, particularly on social justice and outreach to marginalized communities.
Leaders worldwide, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, extended their congratulations. Pope Leo XIV is associated with the Order of St. Augustine, a religious order centered on community and service. His choice of the papal name refers to Leo XIII, famed for addressing workers’ rights.
His election followed traditional conclave procedures with white smoke announcing the decision. Reactions worldwide, including in Peru and the U.S., ranged from celebratory to reflective, highlighting the historic and symbolic significance of his selection for both the Church and international Catholic communities.
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Context & Background
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, is the first North American and first member of the Order of Saint Augustine to ascend to the papacy. His extensive missionary work in Peru, where he served as a parish pastor, seminary teacher, and bishop, has deeply influenced his pastoral approach. Prior to his election, he held significant positions within the Vatican, including Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. His election reflects the Catholic Church’s ongoing efforts to embrace a more global and inclusive leadership, acknowledging the growing influence of the Church in the Americas.
In This Story
Pope Leo XIV
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, is the current head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State. He is the first American and first member of the Order of Saint Augustine to become pope.
Order of Saint Augustine
The Order of Saint Augustine is a Roman Catholic religious order founded in the 13th century, emphasizing community life and service. Pope Leo XIV is the first pope from this order.
Vatican City
Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. It serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the pope.
Peru
Peru is a country in South America where Pope Leo XIV spent a significant portion of his clerical career, serving as a missionary, seminary teacher, and bishop.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is the birthplace of Pope Leo XIV and the city where he began his journey in the Catholic Church.
