On May 8, the Catholic Church marked a historic moment as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the 267th Bishop of Rome, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This significant milestone followed the decision of 133 voting cardinals to continue the papacy after the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025.
Now at the helm of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV assumes the spiritual leadership of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, guiding the Church through a new chapter in its history. His election not only represents a new era but also marks two historic firsts: he is the first pope from the Order of Saint Augustine and the first American to ever ascend to the papacy.
In His Predecessors’ Steps
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni revealed that Pope Leo XIV’s choice of name was a deliberate homage to his predecessor, Pope Leo XIII, who led the Church from 1878 to 1903. Known for his forward-thinking leadership during a period of social and industrial change, Leo XIII is especially remembered for his landmark 1891 encyclical “Rerum Novarum.” This pivotal document defended workers’ rights and laid the groundwork for modern Catholic social teaching, earning him the title “pope of the workers” for his commitment to justice and dignity for the laboring class.
By choosing the name Leo XIV, the new pope signals a commitment to continuing that legacy, emphasizing a Church that stands with the marginalized and actively addresses the pressing social challenges of the modern world. Much like his immediate predecessor, Pope Francis, he brings a profound dedication to helping low-income earners. This commitment is deeply rooted in his past as a former leader of the Augustinian order, known for living simply and ministering to those in need.
In his first address as pope to the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square, he spoke in Italian, saying, “We must seek together how to be a missionary church, a church that builds bridges, dialogue, always open to receive like this square with open arms.”
A Life Rooted in Faith and Service
Raised in Dolton, Illinois, Prevost was actively involved in his local parish, St. Mary of the Assumption, where he served as an altar boy and sang in the choir. His commitment to his faith was evident even in his youth. Later, his academic journey took him to Villanova University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1977. Notably, during his time there, he co-founded “Villanovans for Life,” a pro-life group that reflected his early dedication to Catholic values.
Following his graduation, Prevost joined the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and was ordained a priest in 1982. Soon after, his missionary work led him to Peru, where he took on various roles, including parish pastor, diocesan official, and seminary teacher. His unwavering dedication to the people of Peru earned him the affectionate nickname “the Pope of Chiclayo” during his tenure as Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023.
In 2023, Pope Francis appointed Prevost as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. That same year, he was elevated to the College of Cardinals and given the title of Santa Monica degli Agostiniani. Due to his reputation as a thoughtful and effective administrator, along with his alignment with Pope Francis’s vision, he quickly became a prominent figure within the Church.
The 2025 papal conclave, convened following the death of Pope Francis, was characterized by thoughtful deliberation and unity. Prevost emerged as a consensus candidate, admired for his moderate stance and deep understanding of the Church’s needs. His election was widely viewed as a continuation of Pope Francis’ reforms, particularly those focused on synodality, social justice, and inclusivity. This alignment with his predecessor’s vision positions Pope Leo XIV to guide the Church through a period of renewal and outreach.
A New Direction For the Church
Pope Leo XIV’s election signifies not only the continuation of Pope Francis’s legacy but also the beginning of a new chapter in the Church’s journey. Rooted in his deep Augustinian values, committed to social justice, and focused on pastoral care, Pope Leo XIV is well-positioned to lead the Catholic Church with humility and compassion. As he navigates the complexities of the modern world, his leadership promises to steer the Church toward a more inclusive and compassionate future.
Featured image: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images
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