U.S. Cardinal of Spanish descent, Robert Prevost: Augustinian missionary in Peru
Meet the New Pope: Leo XIV - 69-Year-Old Cardinal Robert Prevost Takes the Throne
The Vatican has a brand-new leader! Cardinal Robert F. Prevost Martínez, hailing from Chicago, has been crowned as Pope Leo XIV, succeeding the late Francis. At 69 years old, this avid theologian has an impressively long career, with his recent positions under Francis being pivotal factors in his ascent to the papal seat.
Curious about the latest news? Check out: Live updates: Robert Prevost elected as the new Pope of the Catholic Church
Born on September 14, 1955, to a French, Italian, and Spanish family, Prevost embarked on his religious journey in 1977 by joining the novitiate of the Order of St. Augustine (OSA). He made solemn vows in 1981 and earned a Bachelor's degree in Mathematical Sciences from Villanova University. His religious passion drove him to pursue further studies, eventually earning a Master's degree in Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago and a Bachelor's and doctorate magna cum laude in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome. His doctoral research focused on The role of the local prior of the Order of St. Augustine.
Throughout his career in the church, Prevost has garnered an impressive resume, including stints as a priest, a leader of Augustinian missions, and an administrator of the Peruvian diocese of Chiclayo. However, controversy surfaced in 2023 when an organization accused him of covering up sexual abuse allegations against two Peruvian priests. The diocese denied these allegations, and investigative journalist Pedro Salinas assures they are "absolutely false."
Also in the spotlight: United States and the United Kingdom sign their new trade agreement: "It's a fantastic and historic day"
In an award-winning career, Prevost held crucial roles, such as Chancellor of the Territorial Prelature of Chulucanas (1985-1986), director of vocations and missions of the Augustinian province of 'Mother of Good Counsel' in Illinois (1987-1988), director of the joint formation project of Augustinian aspirants in Peru (1988-1998), and prior of the community (1988-1992). He further served as a professor of canon law, judicial vicar, and prior of the SND A community of laywomen in Trujillo.
Pope Francis' trust in Leo XIV became evident in 2013 when he returned to his home province in Chicago to serve as master of the professed and provincial vicar. In November 3, 2014, Pope Francis appointed him apostolic administrator of the Peruvian diocese of Chiclayo, elevating him to the rank of bishop, and placing him in charge of the titular diocese of Sufar.
Over the years, Prevost has been a member of seven Vatican dicasteries and the Commission for the Government of the State of Vatican City, solidifying his position alongside the late Pope Francis. He has been known for sharing Francis' vision regarding poor communities, migrants, and the environment. Despite his stance, Prevost has voiced opposition to the ordination of women, suggesting that "clericalizing women does not necessarily solve a problem, it could generate a new one."
Stay tuned for more updates on Pope Leo XIV's reign and his vision for the Church.
(With information from EFE)
Related Topics:- Robert Prevost- Pope Leo XIV- Catholic Church- Vatican- Controversy- Trust in Pope Francis' leadership
The news surrounding the Catholic Church continues to evolve with Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost, taking the papal throne. This new leader has a long-standing relationship with the Vatican, having served on various dicasteries and commissions during Pope Francis' tenure.
Currently, international politics are abuzz as the United States and United Kingdom officially sign their highly anticipated trade agreement, a significant step that officials from both nations are praising as historic and fantastic.
