Facts About Pope Leo XIV, the First American Pope
1. Chicago Roots with a Global Outlook
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Prevost grew up in Dolton, a south suburb of the city, with his parents and two brothers. His Midwestern upbringing shaped his grounded demeanor, but his career took him far beyond the U.S., giving him a global perspective that resonates with the Church’s universal mission.
2. First American Pope
Pope Leo XIV is the first U.S.-born pontiff, a milestone that broke a long-standing taboo against electing a pope from a global superpower like the United States. His election was met with excitement in the U.S., with President Donald Trump calling it a “great honor” for the country.
3. A Missionary in Peru
Prevost spent much of his career as a missionary in Peru, arriving in 1985 and later serving as bishop of Chiclayo from 2014. He holds dual Peruvian citizenship, and his work among Peru’s poor left a lasting impact, with Peruvian President Dina Boluarte praising his “closeness to those most in need.”
4. Augustinian Friar
As a member of the Order of St. Augustine, Pope Leo XIV is the first Augustinian friar to become Pope. His formation in this religious order, guided by the teachings of St. Augustine, emphasizes service, humility, and community. He referenced this identity in his first address, saying, “I am a son of Saint Augustine.”
5. Education and Expertise in Canon Law
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost graduated from Villanova University in 1977 and earned a master’s degree in theology from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in 1982. He later studied canon law at the Pontifical Saint Thomas Aquinas University in Rome, becoming an expert in the Church’s legal system, which bolstered his appeal to traditionalist factions.
6. Surprise Election
Despite being listed among “papabile” (potential popes) by some media, Prevost was considered a long shot due to his American nationality. His election on the fourth ballot after just two days of the 2025 conclave surprised many, reflecting his ability to unite a diverse group of 133 cardinal electors.
7. Multilingual First Address
In his inaugural address from St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV spoke in Italian, Spanish, and Latin, but notably not English, reflecting his global focus. He paid tribute to his “beloved diocese” in Chiclayo, Peru, and emphasized peace and unity, saying, “Peace be with you all.”
8. Commitment to Pope Francis’ Legacy
Pope Leo XIV has signaled continuity with Pope Francis’ progressive reforms, particularly on social justice and inclusivity. In his first speech, he referenced Francis’ Easter blessing and called for a “missionary church” that builds bridges, though his exact stance on contentious issues remains unclear.
Everything you need to know about Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost.
– Born in Chicago on September 14, 1955. His father was a US Navy veteran who fought in WW2. His mother was a librarian.
– He completed his secondary studies at the minor seminary of the Order of St.… pic.twitter.com/tgMIvDMut0
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) May 8, 2025
