Essential facts about newly-appointed Pope Leo XIV, previously known as Robert Prevost:
The freshly crowned Pope Leo XIV, hailing from the windy city of Chicago, makes history as the first pope to hail from the United States. At 69-years-old, this globetrotting pontiff is renowned for his extended stints as a missionary in South America and his recent tenure heading a powerful Vatican office.
The election of Leo XIV represents a continuity with the papacy of the late Pope Francis, as he is expected to carry on his predecessor's reforms within the church and a focusing on uplifting the poor and marginalized.
Here's a closer look at the new American pontiff:
1. The "Least American" of American Cardinals
Leo XIV was born and raised in Chicago, but within the Vatican's walls, he was considered the "least American" of the US cardinals due to his extensive time spent working abroad. He spent ten years in Trujillo, Peru, followed by a bishop appointment in Chiclayo, Peru, where he served from 2014 to 2023. His fluency in Spanish and Italian, showcased during his first public address in St. Peter's Square, underlines his dedication to embracing different cultures.
2. Pope Francis' Trusted Lieutenant
The late Pope Francis had an affinity for Leo XIV, viewing him as a capable leader. CNN's Vatican correspondent, Christopher Lamb, recalls meeting Cardinal Prevost and finding him to be a "very thoughtful person, a very measured person." Overall, he was understated and appeared to prefer a low-key approach.
3. Member of the Augustinian Order
Leo XIV is a devout member of the Augustinian religious order, bearing a global presence. He previously served as the order's prior general for over a decade. During his first remarks as Pope, he emphasized his connection to St. Augustine and the idea that all church members, from leaders to the everyday parishioner, walk together in unity.
4. Steadfast Leader
Francis appointed Leo XIV as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, responsible for assessing candidate bishops and making recommendations for new appointments. As president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, his time spent in leadership roles has been characterized as calm, balanced, even-handed, and clear-minded.
5. A Missionary at Heart
Leo XIV views himself as a missionary, believing it's his role to proclaim the gospel wherever he goes. His missionary work in Peru left a lasting impact, molding him into a global church advocate. His priority remains the welfare of a worldwide Church, resonating with those beyond the borders of the Western world.
6. Dual Citizen of the United States and Peru
With Peruvian citizenship in his pocket since August 2015, Leo XIV embodies a unique blend of two nations. Peruvian President Dina Boluarte referred to his election as a "historic moment for Peru and the world."
7. Continuity with a Commitment to the Poor
Adopting the name of Pope Leo XIII, the pontiff focused on the poor and workers during his papacy, echoing Leo XIV's commitment to social justice. Leo XIII's emphasis on workers' rights and Catholic social doctrine makes a bold statement about their shared vision.
8. Centrist Unifier
While aligned with Francis' direction for the church and its inclusivity, Leo XIV is expected to chart his own course. He is anticipated to adopt a moderate stance on social issues like migration and poverty, while upholding traditional Catholic doctrine on moral issues. His election demonstrates his broad appeal within the College of Cardinals, which is crucial for obtaining a majority.
9. Educated Mathematician
Leo XIV graduated with a degree in mathematics from Villanova University in Pennsylvania, later earning his diploma in theology from the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago. With a deep understanding of canon law, he taught the subject in seminaries in Trujillo, Peru.
10. Tennis Enthusiast and Traveler
The new Pope is a self-proclaimed amateur tennis player, eager to get back on the court following a hiatus after leaving Peru. In his leisure time, he enjoys reading, walking, and exploring new destinations.
The new American pontiff's election represents a significant moment in Church history. With his roots in the United States and his heart in South America, Leo XIV is set to embark on a journey of global leadership, advocacy, and unity within the Catholic Church.
- Despite being born in the United States, Pope Leo XIV, in the Vatican, was considered the "least American" of the US cardinals due to his extensive time spent working abroad, particularly in Peru.
- The late Pope Francis, known for his affinity for competent leaders, had a strong fondness for Leo XIV, whom he found to be a "very thoughtful person, a very measured person."
- Pope Leo XIV, as a devout member of the Augustinian religious order, spent over a decade serving as the order's prior general before his election as pope.
