Pope Leo XIV

Quick Facts

Overview

Robert Francis Prevost was born in Chicago and entered the Augustinian novitiate in 1977. He made solemn profession in 1981, was ordained a priest in 1982, and earned a doctorate in canon law.

He served for many years in Peru as a missionary, formator, seminary professor, judicial vicar, and parish pastor. He later served two terms as Prior General of the Order of St. Augustine.

Pope Francis appointed him apostolic administrator and then Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru. In 2023 he became Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.

Early Life and Augustinian Vocation

Prevost was born on September 14, 1955, to Louis Marius Prevost and Mildred Agnes Martinez. He studied at Villanova University, earning a degree in mathematics and pursuing philosophy.

He entered the Order of St. Augustine in 1977. His later motto, In Illo Uno Unum, comes from St. Augustine and expresses unity in the one Christ.

Missionary Ministry in Peru

Beginning in 1985, he served in the Augustinian mission in Chulucanas. He later returned to Peru and spent years in Trujillo as prior, director of formation, master of professed brothers, seminary educator, judicial vicar, and parish pastor.

He acquired Peruvian citizenship in 2015. His long pastoral service in Peru is central to understanding his formation as a bishop and pope.

Leadership in the Order of St. Augustine

In 1998 he was elected provincial prior of the Chicago-based Augustinian province. In 2001 the Order elected him Prior General, and he was confirmed for a second six-year term in 2007.

This global religious leadership gave him direct experience of local churches, formation, governance, missionary life, and the international communion of the Order.

Episcopal and Curial Service

Pope Francis appointed him Apostolic Administrator of Chiclayo and titular Bishop of Sufar in 2014. He received episcopal ordination on December 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and became Bishop of Chiclayo in 2015.

In January 2023 he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He was created cardinal on September 30, 2023, and elevated to the Order of Cardinal Bishops in February 2025.

Election to the Apostolic See

The conclave began on May 7, 2025. Cardinal Prevost was elected the following day and chose the name Leo XIV.

He celebrated his first Mass with the College of Cardinals on May 9 and inaugurated his Petrine ministry on May 18, 2025.

Why Pope Leo XIV Matters

His election marks several firsts: first pope from the United States and first member of the Order of St. Augustine to become pope. His life also joins North and South America through decades of service in Peru.

The significance of his pontificate will be judged through time. The present duty of the faithful is prayer, attentive reception of authentic magisterial teaching, and refusal to replace documented acts with partisan projection.

Prayer for Pope Leo XIV

Lord Jesus Christ, Shepherd and Guardian of souls, preserve Pope Leo XIV in faith, hope, charity, wisdom, courage, and humility. Strengthen him to confirm his brethren, defend the deposit of faith, serve the unity of the Church, care for the poor, and proclaim Thy Gospel to the world. Amen.

Sources and Update Policy

• The Holy See, official Biography of the Holy Father Leo XIV.
• The Holy See, official list of Supreme Pontiffs.
• Official papal documents, speeches, appointments, and liturgical celebrations should govern future updates.
• This page should be re-audited whenever major official biographical or pontifical information changes.

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