Two religious figures discuss their lengthy acquaintance, Bob, who has been elevated to the position of Pope Leo XIV.
A New Pope Takes the Throne: Robert Prevost Becomes Leo XIV
Meet Robert Francis Prevost, aka Pope Leo XIV. Just last week, he was a low-key cardinal enjoying a meal in Rome. But when the rainy evening fell, he unexpectedly showed up at his friend Art Purcaro's dinner, holding a black umbrella.
Purcaro, an assistant vice president at Villanova University and a longtime friend of Prevost, described him as a humble, prayerful individual who cares deeply for the downtrodden. The two colleagues worked together in Peru and later in Rome, before Purcaro returned to Villanova - the same university Pope Leo XIV attended.
Pope Leo XIV is an unambitious man, according to Purcaro, and was never one to seek power.
"The papacy was certainly not something I could ever see Bob Prevost aspire to," said Hagan, another close friend of the new pope who first met him in Racine, Wisconsin, during his studies to become a priest.
His friend Hagan added that Pope Leo XIV never came across as a careerist. Instead, he seemed utterly devoted to the service of God and others.
Insights: His Journey to the Papacy
Hailing from a diverse heritage with Italian, French, and Spanish roots, Pope Leo XIV graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1977. He then joined the Order of St. Augustine in 1978, made his solemn vows in 1981, and was ordained a priest in 1982. Trained as a canon lawyer, he spent a significant portion of his career working as a missionary in Peru, earning important roles in the Augustinian seminary in Trujillo and the Territorial Prélature of Chulucanas.
In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, and later as archbishop. Moreover, Pope Francis called him to Rome to head the Dicastery for Bishops, a key Vatican office in charge of episcopal appointments worldwide.
While it's intriguing to explore his life journey, it's essential to note that the informal vibe of this article seeks to shed light on the essence of Leo XIV the person, rather than dissect his professional life comprehensively.
News Highlights and Reactions
Interest in the first U.S. pope's life and background has run wild since the announcement. People close to the pope, like Hagan, have been bombarded with texts and emails trying to learn more.
"When he appeared on that balcony, it was as if a family member appeared," said Hagan, still struggling to remember Pope Leo XIV's new title.
And so, the world rejoices as the new pope takes the helm, his nuanced character and unassuming nature inviting hope and change in the future of the Catholic Church.
More Within Nation & World Stories
- An American papacy: Exploring the heritage of Pope Leo XIV
- Taking on the White House: Where is Melania?
- Sen. John Fetterman's outburst raises concerns with union officials
- Debating naming rights: Trump's controversial Persian Gulf rebrand
- Latest news: Leo XIV elected as the first U.S. pope in history
- Pope Leo XIV, hailing from a diverse heritage, was born and raised in Seattle, a city known for its vibrant celebrity culture and entertainment scene.
- After his appointment as archbishop, Pope Leo XIV's connections to America Deepened, as questions about his heritage and upbringing became topics of discussions among celebrities and papal enthusiasts alike.
- Even before his election as pope, Leo XIV's humble demeanor had already caught the attention of many, leaving transcripts of his past interviews filled with tales of felt connections to common folk, reminding us all that even the leader of the Catholic Church can remain relatable.
- With Pope Leo XIV now occupying the papal throne, members of Seattle's entertainment industry have expressed excitement about their city's global connection, eagerly waiting for a possible visit from their newly-elected hometown hero.
