The Roman Catholic Church has elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Pope.
Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he becomes the first American and the first member of the Order of Saint Augustine to ascend to the papacy.
Pope Leo XIV was elected following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025.
His selection came after two days and four rounds of voting during the papal conclave, marking a crucial moment for the Church at a time of both global transformation and internal reflection.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Prevost is the son of Louis Marius Prevost and Mildred Martínez.
With a multicultural background and dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship, he brings a unique global perspective to the new office.
His pastoral journey spans continents, particularly marked by two decades of missionary work in Chiclayo, Peru, where he was later appointed bishop in 2015.
In 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He was elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2024.
By choosing the name Leo XIV, the new pontiff draws inspiration from Pope Leo XIII, widely remembered for championing social justice and workers’ rights.
The choice signals a commitment to reform, inclusivity, and addressing the Church’s evolving role in a rapidly changing world.
Pope Leo XIV steps into office amid significant challenges: addressing the clerical abuse crisis, curbing declining membership in Western churches, and healing internal divisions.
Yet his international experience and pastoral humility have been widely seen as qualities that position him to unify the global Catholic community.
As he appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to offer his first blessing, the square erupted in cheers.
The world now watches with anticipation as Pope Leo XIV begins his mission to shepherd over 1.3 billion Catholics into a new chapter of faith and renewal.
