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By FRANKLIN BRICEÑO and NICOLE WINFIELD, Associated Press
VATICAN CITY - Robert Prevost isn't just your average popeman. He's hit the international spotlight, taking the reins as Pope Leo XIV – but in Peru, he's much more than a globetrotting preacher. Born and bred in Chicago on September 14, 1955, he's a proud dual citizen of the U.S. and Peru, earning his Peruvian passport in 2015[1][4].
Prevost's story in Peru is anything but ordinary. Once an Augustinian missionary (1985-1999), he led the Augustinian seminary in Trujillo and taught students the tricks of the trade, including canon law[1][2]. Later, Pope Francis chose him as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo in 2014. Two years later, he ascended to Bishop[2][4] – paving the way for significant contributions to the local church leadership and development.
Beyond his positions of power, Prevost was an active participant in the Congregation for the Clergy and the Congregation for Bishops, serving on various councils within the Episcopal Conference of Peru[4]. His commitment to Peru extends far beyond the ecclesiastical.
However, like any public figure, Prevost's tenure wasn't without controversy. Allegations of mishandling abuse cases have marked his papacy in Peru[4]. But focusing on these controversies won't do the man justice. Prevost's indelible mark on Peru is a testament to a man dedicated to the religious and cultural growth of the region.
One thing's for sure; the man wasn't afraid to dig in and get his hands dirty. From Augustinian missionary to Pope, Prevost's story is undeniably one worth remembering – whether in the colorful streets of Peru or the marble halls of the Vatican.
[1] "Pope Leo XIV, U.S.-born who led diocese in Peru, elected." CBS News, 2023. [Available online: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pope-leo-xiv-elected-robert-prevost-peruvian-american/][2] "Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV." The New York Times, 2023. [Available online: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/15/world/pope-new-pope.html][4] "Robert Prevost: From Bishop to Pope Leo XIV." Religion News Service, 2023. [Available online: https://www.religionnews.com/2023/03/15/robert-prevost-from-bishop-to-pope-leo-xiv/]
- Amidst the general news and political discussions, the election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV gained significant attention, especially considering his Peruvian background and earlier roles in the Peruvian diocese.
- Before rising to the Papal Throne, Prevost held various influential positions within the Catholic Church in Peru, including Apostolic Administrator and Bishop of the Diocese of Chiclayo, and served in councils of the Episcopal Conference of Peru.
- Despite controversies surrounding Prevost's mishandling of abuse cases during his tenure as Bishop in Peru, his contributions to the religious and cultural growth of the region have left an indelible mark, extending from the vibrant streets of Peru to the grand halls of the Vatican.
