Introduction to Pope Leon XIV and His Peruvian Connection
Peru’s President, Dina Boluarte, recently expressed her joy over the election of Pope Leon XIV, a Peruvian by “choice and conviction” with more than 20 years of service in the country.
Who is Pope Leon XIV?
Pope Leon XIV, whose birth name is Robert Prevost, was born in Chicago but became a naturalized Peruvian citizen in 2015. He is a member of the Order of St. Augustine and has dedicated a significant portion of his religious life to Peru.
Prevost’s Journey in Peru
- First arrived in Peru in 1985
- Directed a formation seminary of the Order of St. Augustine in Trujillo at age 33 (1988)
- Held various positions in Peru until 1998, when he returned to the United States to serve in Chicago
- Led the Diocese of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023
- Served as the second vice president of the Peruvian Episcopal Conference from 2018 to 2023
- Appointed as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Callao (Lima’s neighboring port) from 2020 to 2022 to address a crisis involving abuse allegations
- Left Peru in 2023 after being appointed Cardinal Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America by Pope Francis in January 2023
President Boluarte’s Praise for Pope Leon XIV
In a Facebook message, President Boluarte described the election of Pope Leon XIV as a “historic moment for Peru.” She praised Prevost for choosing to live among the Peruvian people and carrying their faith, culture, and dreams in his heart.
Boluarte highlighted that Pope Leon XIV has “planted hope” and walked alongside the most vulnerable in Peru throughout his time there. She expressed her confidence that his papacy, inspired by the message of peace, will be a source of wisdom, justice, and love among nations.
Impact of Pope Leon XIV’s Actions
Pope Leon XIV’s dedication to Peru has left a lasting impact on the country and its people. His leadership in various roles, including heading the Diocese of Chiclayo and addressing abuse allegations in the Diocese of Callao, demonstrates his commitment to serving and supporting the Peruvian community.
His appointment as Cardinal Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America by Pope Francis further emphasizes his significant contributions to the Catholic Church and the global community.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Pope Leon XIV? Pope Leon XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, is a Peruvian national who has dedicated over 20 years of his life to serving in Peru.
- What roles has Pope Leon XIV held in Peru? He has served as the head of the Diocese of Chiclayo, vice president of the Peruvian Episcopal Conference, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Callao, and is now Cardinal Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
- Why is Pope Leon XIV’s election significant for Peru? His election is considered a historic moment for Peru, as he is the first Peruvian Pope. President Boluarte praised his dedication to the country and its people, expressing confidence that his papacy will bring wisdom, justice, and love among nations.
