The Election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost
On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, born in the United States and naturalized as a Peruvian citizen, was elected as the 267th successor of St. Peter and Bishop of Rome at the age of 69. He is the first American pope and the first Augustinian in the history of the papacy. Known for his discreet yet fierce nature, he is described as “more of a jaguar than a lion,” according to political scientist and historian Mónica Uribe.
A Pragmatic and Moderate Pope
Prevost is expected to be a more moderate and pragmatic pope than his predecessor, Francisco. He will not be another Juan XXIII or Francis II, but rather León XIV, the second pope born in the Americas and the first American, with a forward-thinking approach on social issues while maintaining moderation in doctrinal matters.
A Peruvian Soul in an American Body
Prevost’s dual nationality, born in Chicago and having served in Peruvian indigenous communities, has shaped his unique perspective. His background as a member of the Order of St. Augustine, with extensive missionary experience in Peru, has prepared him for the challenges of our time.
In his first address, Prevost chose to greet his “beloved diocese of Chiclayo, in Peru” in Spanish before English, highlighting his Peruvian identity despite being born in the United States.
Why León XIV?
Prevost’s chosen name, León XIV, pays homage to León XIII, the first pope of the 20th century. León XIII sought to address economic issues during the Industrial Revolution, advocating for a subsidiarity of production means in favor of people. His encyclical ‘Rerum novarum’ (1891) laid the groundwork for the Church’s social doctrine.
As a member of milenary religious orders with experience in South American countries and a deep understanding of migration issues, Prevost is seen as a unifying figure who will prioritize social pastoral care.
Key Aspects of Pope León XIV
- Enjoys Peruvian ceviche.
- Has played tennis since youth and supports the Chicago Cubs baseball team.
- Multilingual: proficient in English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, and Latin.
- Has a multicultural background with a French father and Spanish mother.
- Holds degrees in mathematics and canonical law.
- Active on social media platforms.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Pope León XIV? Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American-born Peruvian national, elected as the 267th pope on May 8, 2025.
- What makes Pope León XIV unique? He is the first American and Augustinian pope, with a missionary background in Peru and a moderate approach to social issues.
- Why did Pope León XIV choose the name León XIV? In honor of León XIII, who established the Church’s social doctrine and sought to address economic issues during the Industrial Revolution.
- What are Pope León XIV’s key interests and qualities? He enjoys Peruvian ceviche, plays tennis, is multilingual, and has a multicultural background. He holds degrees in mathematics and canonical law.
