Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, born in Chicago in 1955, is a prominent Catholic Church leader who was elected the 267th pope on May 8, 2025, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first North American pope and had a long career as an Augustinian missionary, teacher, and church leader, including serving as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops at the Vatican before his election. Prevost spent significant years in Peru as a missionary and bishop and held leadership roles in the Augustinian order both in the U.S. and internationally. His election marks a historic moment as the first American- born pontiff.
Background and Early Life
- Born September 14, 1955, in Chicago and raised in Dolton, Illinois.
- Studied mathematics (Bachelor of Science from Villanova University) and theology (Catholic Theological Union in Chicago).
- Entered the Augustinian novitiate in 1977 and was ordained a priest in 1982.
Career Highlights
- Served as an Augustinian missionary in Peru starting in 1985 and held multiple roles including seminary head, teacher of canon law, and diocesan official.
- Returned to Chicago in 1999 as provincial prior of the Augustinian Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel.
- Elected prior general of the Augustinian order for two terms until 2013, based in Rome.
- Appointed apostolic administrator and later bishop of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, from 2014 to 2023.
- Became prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for Bishops in 2023 before his elevation to cardinal and ultimately pope.
Papacy
- Elected pope on May 8, 2025, as the first American-born pope, adopting the name Leo XIV.
- Known for a balanced and calm leadership style, strong administrative skills, and a commitment to the Church's social doctrine.
- Seen as aligned with Pope Francis' progressive views, especially regarding synodality and inclusive church governance.
This information covers the connection between Cardinal Prevost, Chicago, and his elevation to the papacy. Let me know if details on any specific aspect are needed.
