The Catholic Church has chosen its first-ever American pope. Robert Francis Prevost, a soft-spoken priest from Chicago, is now Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 after a long illness.
From the Windy City to the heart of Rome, Leo XIV’s journey is anything but ordinary. Born and raised in Chicago, he’s the first American — and the first Augustinian friar — to lead the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics. His story is rich with education, devotion, and decades of service far from the spotlight.
Before the Vatican called, Leo XIV studied mathematics at Villanova University and then earned a Master’s in Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. He was ordained a priest in Rome in 1982, but soon after, he packed his bags and headed to Peru. There, he served as a parish pastor for ten years, embracing a simple life among the people.
His deep commitment didn’t go unnoticed. Pope Francis brought him back into the fold, naming him Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, then raising him to the rank of Cardinal. He was later entrusted with the powerful Dicastery for Bishops — a key Vatican department. That role gave him a front-row seat in shaping the Church's future, helping choose bishops around the globe.
Despite his global mission, he never lost his hometown charm. He is reportedly a fan of the Chicago White Sox — one of the two baseball franchises from his hometown. His brother made sure to clear up any confusion. “He was never, ever a Cubs fan,” he told news agency AFP.
Reports branded Prevost as a 'consensus candidate' -- someone who bridges gaps between conservatives and reformers in the Church. Though known for his moderate tone, he hasn’t shied away from making his views known. He shared articles critical of former President Donald Trump and his deputy JD Vance not long before his election as the leader of the Vatican.
