Cardinal Robert Prevost, a 69-year-old Augustinian missionary and former archbishop in Peru, has been elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. Born in Chicago in 1955, Prevost is the first American pontiff in the Church’s 2,000-year history. His election was announced on May 8, 2025, following a swift conclave that concluded on the second day.Prevost’s selection was met with cheers from thousands of faithful gathered at St Peter’s Square. In his first address, he praised his predecessor, Pope Francis and said, “We still hear in our ears the weak, but always courageous voice of Pope Francis who blessed us.” He called for unity, saying, “United and hand in hand with God, let us advance together.”
Prevost’s background is marked by a deep commitment to pastoral care and ecclesiastical governance. He was ordained as a priest in 1982 and later served as bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, from 2015 to 2023.
Also read | Vatican says Robert Francis Prevost of the US is new pope, has chosen name Leo XIVIn 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a key position responsible for evaluating and recommending candidates for the episcopate worldwide. Prevost’s extensive experience in both missionary work and Church administration has positioned him as a figure who favours the continuity of Pope Francis’s reforms in the Catholic Church.His Latin American background, coupled with his American nationality, represents a bridge between cultures and a continuation of the Church’s engagement with global issues.According to reports, as Pope Leo XIV, he inherits a Catholic Church that faces challenges such as secularisation, clergy abuse scandals, and declining vocations. Advocacy groups have raised concerns about his handling of sexual abuse allegations during his tenure in Peru, although his diocese has denied any involvement in cover-ups.
Despite these controversies, Prevost’s election is seen as a commitment to maintaining the Church’s mission of openness, social justice, and inclusion. His first appearance as pope reaffirmed his dedication to these values, signalling a papacy focused on healing, dialogue, and global outreach.Pope Leo XIV’s election is a historic moment in the Catholic Church, reflecting both continuity and evolution in its leadership. His unique background and pastoral experience offer a fresh perspective as he leads the Church into the future.Here are 5 things you should know about the newly-elected pope1. First American Pope | Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago in 1955, is the first American to be elected pope. Despite his U.S. origins, his long missionary work in Latin America gives him a unique cross-cultural perspective.2. Deep Ties to Latin America | Though American by birth, he spent decades in Peru as an Augustinian missionary and later as Bishop of Chiclayo. He also holds Peruvian nationality and is remembered for working with marginalised communities and promoting pastoral outreach.3. Augustinian Roots | A member of the Augustinian Order, Pope Leo XIV emphasises humility, community life, and service. He moved to Peru at age 30 as part of a mission, reflecting his deep commitment to evangelisation and local ministry.4. Close to Pope Francis’ Vision | As the former Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, he played a central role in overseeing bishop appointments worldwide. His election reflects continuity with Pope Francis’ reformist and pastoral agenda, particularly with regard to Church governance and outreach.5. Focus on an Outward-Looking Church | Echoing concerns raised during the conclave, Pope Leo XIV has been described as having a “prophetic spirit”, suited to lead a Church that seeks engagement with the modern world rather than isolation. His first words as pope stressed unity, courage, and walking “hand in hand with God.”(With inputs from agencies)
