Pope Leo XIV: the New Pontiff

5 Jan, 06:00 AM

Who is Pope Leo XIV? Born Robert Francis Prevost, the first U.S.-born pope brings a life shaped by missionary service in Peru, pastoral leadership, and a deep commitment to peace, social justice, and care for the poor. This article explores his background, election, and early priorities as Bishop of Rome.

Who is Pope Leo XIV?

Pope Leo XIV, whose name is Robert Francis Prevost, is the current head of the Catholic Church, sitting under the Chair of Peter. To this day, the Catholic Church stands as the oldest institution in the world with an unbroken chain of command, from St. Peter the Apostle to the current Bishop of Rome, Pope Leo XIV.

Bishop in Peru

During his many years as a priest, he served in South America, specifically in Peru. He went on several missions, serving as a parish pastor, diocesan official, and a seminary teacher. Finally, on November 3, 2014, he was appointed by Pope Francis as Bishop in Chiclayo.

How was Pope Leo XIV elected as Pope?

On the Monday after Easter, April 21st, 2025, Pope Francis departed for the House of the Father. After serving as the leader of the people of God for 12 years, his mission came to an end.

Soon, the College of Cardinals reunited to make preparations for the Conclave. All cardinals under 80 were able to vote, and after just a few days, the name of the 267th Pontiff was elected: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, whose new name became Pope Leo XIV.

What are some of the most essential achievements of Pope Leo XIV this year?

Since his election, news of Pope Leo XIV’s has been everywhere in the media. His continuous actions have even drawn the attention of the secular world, including his apostolic exhortation, Dilexi Te, on the love for the poor, his recent trip to Lebanon, and his emphasis on social doctrine, which continues the legacy of Pope Leo XIII.

Pope Leo XIV’s news has taken the lead this year, to the point where Vogue magazine included him on their list of "best dressed" individuals due to his papal cassocks.

Elected in May 2025 after a brief conclave, Pope Leo XIV became the first pope born in the United States, and a pontiff shaped as much by Latin America as by Rome.

Formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the new Bishop of Rome brings to the papacy a background marked by missionary service in Peru, a strong emphasis on social justice, and a clear continuity with the Church’s tradition on peace and care for the poor.

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