A big moment happened at the Vatican this week. Thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, cheering and shouting, “Viva il Papa!”—which means “Long live the Pope!”—as the name of the new pope was announced.
That name? Robert Francis Prevost.
At 69 years old, Prevost has become the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church and will be known as Pope Leo XIV. He is also the first American to ever become pope. Although he’s from the U.S., many people also see him as connected to Latin America because of the long years he spent working as a missionary in Peru.
From Chicago to the Vatican
Robert Prevost was born in Chicago in 1955, to a family with Spanish and French-Italian roots. As a young boy, he served as an altar boy in church, and by 1982, he became a Catholic priest.
Just a few years later, in 1985, he moved to Peru to begin mission work. Over the next decade, he served as a local pastor and taught at a seminary in the city of Trujillo. He also helped people in poor and rural communities and became known for building strong ties with those often left out.
He eventually became a Peruvian citizen and stayed close to both his American and Peruvian roots, regularly visiting and working in his hometown church in Chicago.
A Life of Service in the Church
In 2014, Pope Francis made him the Bishop of Chiclayo in northern Peru. Later, he was asked to lead the important Dicastery for Bishops, a major role in the Vatican that helps pick and guide bishops around the world. By 2023, he was made a cardinal, and now, just two years later, he’s pope.
In his first speech as Pope Leo XIV, he spoke kindly of his predecessor, Pope Francis, calling him a courageous voice. He told the crowd, “Let us move forward together, hand in hand with God.”
What Does He Believe?
Many people are curious if Pope Leo XIV will continue the changes Pope Francis started. So far, it seems he shares many of Francis’ views—especially when it comes to helping the poor, supporting immigrants, and protecting the planet.
A friend of his, Rev. John Lydon, described him as friendly, humble, and deeply caring about the poor.
Before becoming pope, Prevost shared that he came from a family of immigrants. His grandparents were from France and Spain, and his family’s strong Catholic faith helped shape who he is today.
Though born in the U.S., the Vatican considers him the second pope from the Americas, after Francis of Argentina.
A Pope Focused on Justice and the Earth
The name Leo has a long history in the Church. One of the early Popes named Leo convinced Attila the Hun not to invade Rome. Another, Leo XIII, fought for workers’ rights during the Industrial Revolution. Experts say Pope Leo XIV may have chosen this name to show his support for social justice and the challenges facing modern society.
On climate change, Leo XIV has said it’s time to stop just talking and start taking action. At the Vatican, he’s helped push for real steps—like using solar panels and electric cars—to care for the environment.
He’s also backed greater roles for women in the Church. In fact, he supported Pope Francis’ decision to allow women to help choose bishops, saying their voices are valuable and bring new insights.
Views on LGBTQ+ and Social Issues
Leo XIV’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues isn’t fully known yet. He has supported a statement allowing blessings for same-sex couples, but he believes such things should be handled with care based on different cultures and local situations.
A Pope for a Changing World
Pope Leo XIV steps into his new role at a time of big challenges. The Catholic Church is facing questions about justice, inclusion, and the future. But those who know him say he’s a thoughtful leader who listens and acts with compassion.
Whether in Peru’s rural towns or inside the Vatican, he has shown that he’s ready to lead with heart, wisdom, and a strong sense of duty.
