Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, has been elected as the 267th pope of the Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV — becoming the first American to lead the global institution.
Born in Chicago but also a Peruvian citizen, Pope Leo XIV brings a rich missionary background and a reputation for humility and reform.
“He has a wry sense of humour, but was not someone who sought the limelight,” says Rev. Mark Francis, a longtime friend and fellow seminary student.
A soft-spoken reformer, Prevost spent decades in Peru, rising to become Archbishop of Chiclayo and acquiring citizenship there in 2015. He twice served as the global leader of the Augustinian order, which operates in over 50 countries and champions community life and equality.
Despite the longstanding reluctance within the Vatican to elect an American pope — due to concerns over U.S. geopolitical dominance — Prevost’s unique profile helped him transcend this barrier. Italian daily La Repubblica dubbed him “the least American of the Americans.”
Brought to Rome by Pope Francis in 2023, he led the Vatican office responsible for vetting bishop nominations, a powerful post that gave him significant influence and visibility among Church leadership.
He later presided over key reforms, including the historic inclusion of women in the bishop-selection process.
“He was always friendly and warm and remained a voice of common sense and practical concerns for the Church’s outreach to the poor,” added Rev. Francis.
Rev. Fidel Purisaca Vigil, from his former diocese in Chiclayo, recalled, “No matter how many problems he has, he maintains good humour and joy.”
– Additional reporting by France 24, the AP, and Reuters.
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