Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, made history on May 8, 2025, by becoming the first American pope in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church. As a member of the Augustinian Order, he has devoted a significant portion of his life to missionary efforts in Peru, where he held the position of bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023 and obtained naturalization.
Prevost has earned degrees from Villanova University, the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, and a doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. He is proficient in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese.
In 2023, Pope Francis designated him as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, entrusting him with the vital task of overseeing the appointments of bishops worldwide.
Known for his modesty and commitment to missionary activities, Pope Leo XIV has consistently condemned abortion, labeling it โa form of murderโ and reinforcing the Churchโs belief that life starts at conception. His papacy is anticipated to carry on the compassionate efforts begun by his predecessor while highlighting clarity in doctrine and pastoral support.#
