The Roman Catholic Church has elected American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as its 267th pope, following the passing of Pope Francis at age 88 on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. The newly elected pontiff has taken the name Pope Leo XIV, marking a significant moment in Church history as the first American-born pope.
Pope Francis, remembered for his humility and reform-minded leadership, made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, just one day before his death. Elected in 2013, he was the first pope from the Americas and often challenged the Church to become more inclusive, socially conscious, and attuned to the modern world—an approach that garnered both praise and resistance.
The conclave that selected Pope Leo XIV included 133 cardinals from over 70 countries, highlighting the global nature of the Catholic Church. The election process is steeped in centuries of tradition, tracing back to the early foundations of Christianity.
Cardinal Prevost, born on September 14, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois, brings decades of international pastoral, academic, and administrative experience to the papacy. Prior to his election, he served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and was a member of multiple Vatican congregations, including those for Clergy, Doctrine of the Faith, and Evangelization.
His new papal name, Leo XIV, evokes continuity with earlier reformist popes, suggesting a commitment to thoughtful renewal and pastoral leadership. He now assumes responsibility for guiding 1.5 billion Catholics worldwide.
Who Is Pope Leo XIV?
A member of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.), Prevost entered the novitiate in 1977 and made his solemn vows in 1981. He was ordained a priest in 1982 and later earned a doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome.
He spent years serving in Peru, including as bishop of Chiclayo and apostolic administrator of Callao, where he worked closely with communities and seminaries. He was also twice elected Prior General of the Augustinian Order, overseeing its global mission and formation efforts.
In January 2023, Pope Francis appointed him to lead the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the Church’s most powerful offices overseeing global episcopal appointments. In September 2023, he was elevated to cardinal and assigned the deaconry of Santa Monica.
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, Catholics around the world watch closely for signs of his leadership style and spiritual priorities in a time of both challenge and opportunity for the Church.
