Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is the current pope, known as Pope Leo XIV. He was born September 14, 1955, in Chicago and is the first pope from the United States and North America. Prevost was a member of the Order of Saint Augustine before becoming a bishop and later prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops at the Vatican. He was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023 and elected pope in 2025. He chose the papal name Leo XIV in honor of Pope Leo XIII, signaling a focus on modern Catholic social teaching and addressing challenges posed by technology and artificial intelligence. Prevost is noted for his missionary work in Peru and his moderate, pastoral leadership style, with emphasis on synodality, ecumenism, social justice, and church engagement with contemporary issues.
Summary:
- Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost became Pope Leo XIV in 2025.
- He is the first American-born pope.
- Formerly bishop in Peru and prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.
- Known for pastoral sensitivity and leadership aligned with Pope Francis.
- Chose the papal name Leo XIV to honor social teaching and modern challenges.
This answer covers all three terms "cardinal," "Prevost," and "pope" as they relate to the same individual who is now Pope Leo XIV.
