Article
Pope Leo XIV: First American elected as pope
Summary
Robert Prevost is elected Pope Leo XIV, the first American to hold the office, and during his introductory Mass, he emphasizes unity and missionary effort.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church on May 8, 2025, and chose the name Pope Leo XIV. The election is historic as it marks the first time an American has been elected pope.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, on 14 September 1955, Pope Leo XIV is a dual citizen of both the United States and Peru, the latter citizenship being acquired in 2015. He completed a bachelor's degree in mathematics at Villanova University before studying theology at both the Catholic Theological Union and the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas. He was ordained as a priest in 1982 and joined the Order of Saint Augustine. He went on mission to Peru, where he served in various capacities, including parish pastor, seminary teacher, and diocesan administrator.
His leadership roles have been multiple: Former General of the Order of Saint Augustine (2001–2013), Bishop of Chiclayo (2015–2023), and Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops (2023–2025). He was chosen as pope after the fourth ballot in the conclave following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025.
At his first Mass as pope, celebrated in the Sistine Chapel on May 9, Pope Leo XIV spoken about unity within the Church and a commitment to missionary work, addressing with concern society's fascination with materialism over spirituality. He had chosen the name Leo XIV in remembrance of Pope Leo XIII, who had fought for workers' rights.