Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native and member of the Augustinian Order, has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.
His election marks a milestone as the first American born pontiff in history.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Prevost pursued higher education at Villanova University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1977.
That same year, he entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) in Saint Louis.
After professing his solemn vows in 1981, he was sent to Rome to study canon law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum), where he received his licentiate in 1984 and doctorate in 1987.
In 1985, Prevost began his missionary work in Chulucanas, Peru. His dedication to the Church's mission led him to serve in various roles in Trujillo, including community prior, director of formation, and professor.
His leadership within the Augustinian Order was further recognized when he was elected provincial prior of the “Mother of Good Counsel” province in Chicago in 1999. He later served two terms as prior general of the Order.
In 2014, Pope Francis appointed Prevost as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, elevating him to the dignity of bishop. He was ordained on December 12, 2014, and served as bishop of Chiclayo until 2023.
His influence within the Church expanded when Pope Francis appointed him as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America in 2023.
On September 30, 2023, Prevost was elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope Francis.
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, Cardinal Prevost has been elected as pope on May 8, 2025, during the fourth round of voting in the conclave.
He chose the name Pope Leo XIV, signaling a commitment to social justice and the Church's engagement with modernity, echoing the legacy of Pope Leo XIII.
Pope Leo XIV is known for his humility, administrative acumen, and deep pastoral commitment. His election represents a continuation of Pope Francis's legacy, with a focus on unity, peace, and support for the suffering.
As the first American-born pope, his leadership is expected to bring a unique perspective to the papacy, guiding the Church through the challenges of the 21st century with compassion and wisdom.