Leo XIV Becomes First American Pope: A Historic Moment for the Catholic Church
May 8, 2025
In a historic announcement from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican introduced Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. Taking the name Leo XIV, he becomes the first American-born pope and the first Augustinian to ascend to the papacy.
Habemus Papam: A New Era Begins
Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti delivered the traditional Latin proclamation "Habemus Papam" to the thousands gathered in Saint Peter’s Square: “The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord Robert Francis Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church Prevost, who has taken the name Leo XIV.”
This moment marked the election of the Church’s new spiritual leader, following the recent conclave. At 69 years old, Leo XIV represents a blend of academic rigor, missionary experience, and leadership within religious orders.
From Chicago to the Vatican
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost is the son of Louis Marius Prevost and Mildred Martínez. After early seminary training, he studied mathematics and philosophy at Villanova University before joining the Augustinian Order in 1977.
He made his final vows in 1981 and was ordained in Rome in 1982. He later earned a doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.
Missionary Service in Peru
Prevost spent more than a decade in Peru, serving in various leadership and educational roles within the Church. His deep ties to Latin America continue to shape his pastoral vision.
From 1999 onward, he rose through the ranks, first as Provincial Prior in Chicago, then as Prior General of the Augustinians globally for two terms.
Leading Within the Church
In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru. He went on to serve in key roles within the Vatican, including Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
He was made a Cardinal in 2024, actively participating in major Church synods and papal journeys. In February 2025, he was elevated to the Order of Bishops.
Historic Milestone: First American-Born Pope
Leo XIV is the first Pontiff born in the United States—a significant milestone that reflects the evolving global face of the Catholic Church. His Augustinian background also marks a first for the papacy.
His multicultural experience and decades of missionary work uniquely position him to address modern challenges and connect with Catholics worldwide.
A Global Pope for a Global Church
During Pope Francis’s last hospitalization, Prevost led the Rosary in Saint Peter’s Square—a moment now seen as symbolic of the transition underway. His papacy is expected to emphasize unity, dialogue, and renewal.
As the Church turns a new page, Pope Leo XIV stands as a beacon of continuity and change—rooted in tradition, yet deeply attuned to the world’s evolving spiritual needs.