Who is Leo XIV, the first elected American pope?

Robert Prevost was born on September 14, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois. He is one of the few American cardinals to occupy a central role in the Roman Curia.

He joined the Augustinians in 1977 and made his solemn profession in 1981. This religious order focuses on community life, prayer and pastoral service.

After his ordination in 1982, he worked for several years as a missionary in Peru, notably in Trujillo, where he was involved in training, pastoral work and community development.

From 2001 to 2013, he was Superior General of the order worldwide, working closely with the Vatican and traveling to many countries.

In 2015, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo, in northern Peru, where he has been heavily involved in reorganizing the diocese and supporting religious vocations.

In January 2023, he was appointed head of the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the Vatican’s most influential departments. in this position, he was responsible for submitting proposals for episcopal appointments to Pope Francis.

Pope Francis named him a cardinal at the consistory on September 30, 2023, consecrating his growing importance within the Catholic Church.

On May 8, Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected the new pontiff, succeeding Pope Francis. The first American pope, he chose the name Leo XIV, marking a new stage for the Catholic Church.

His appointment underlines a desire for renewal, while remaining true to the Augustinian tradition that has shaped his career.