Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, has become the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church and the first American to hold the position. His election was met with chants of “Viva il Papa” even before it was officially announced. Born in Chicago in 1955, he brings a unique blend of American and Latin American identity to the papacy due to his years as a missionary in Peru.
Raised in a devout Catholic family of Spanish and Franco-Italian heritage, Leo XIV served as an altar boy before his ordination in 1982. After moving to Peru in 1985, he worked as a parish priest and seminary teacher in Trujillo. His long-standing service to marginalized communities in Peru earned him national recognition and Peruvian citizenship.
Blending Tradition, Diversity, and Reform to Shape a Compassionate and Inclusive Catholic Future
Pope Leo XIV expressed admiration for his predecessor, Pope Francis, in his first public address, emphasizing unity and continuity. He also highlighted his role in the Augustinian Order, reflecting his lifelong dedication to religious leadership. His appointment as Bishop of Chiclayo in 2014 and later as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops solidified his influence within the Church hierarchy.
Pope Leo XIV Becomes First American Pontiff, Promising Unity, Reform, and Global InclusionDespite being born in the U.S., Leo XIV has complex roots that include ties to New Orleans’ Black community through his maternal grandparents. Historical records describe them as black or mulatto, though the family was listed as white after relocating to Chicago, reflecting the racial dynamics of the time. His background underscores the diverse fabric of American Catholicism.
Experts note that the name “Leo” signals a focus on social issues, recalling Pope Leo XIII’s advocacy for workers’ rights. Pope Leo XIV appears aligned with many of Pope Francis’ progressive reforms, including environmental action and limited openness to blessing same-sex couples, although he stresses adapting Church teachings to local cultural contexts.
Balancing Reform, Inclusion, and Accountability in a Complex Global Church Leadership Role
Leo XIV has shown support for increasing women’s participation in Church leadership, backing their involvement in the Dicastery for Bishops. While he is not outspoken on LGBTQ+ rights, his nuanced views suggest cautious continuity with Francis’ reforms. His positions on climate action and social equity further demonstrate his reformist inclinations.
The new pope has appeared to oppose certain policies of the Trump administration, especially on immigration. Social media posts linked to him criticized former Vice President JD Vance’s stance on migrants. Though the Vatican hasn’t verified the account, the content aligns with Leo XIV’s known advocacy for the marginalized and his criticism of xenophobic rhetoric.
While many in Peru celebrate his appointment, Pope Leo XIV’s legacy is clouded by allegations of mishandled sexual abuse cases during his tenure as Bishop of Chiclayo. Some accusers claim he failed to pursue proper investigations, though Church officials dispute this. As he assumes global leadership, addressing such scandals will be one of the major challenges facing his papacy.