Pope Leo XIV: An American with Deep Latin American Roots

Robert Prevost, 69, is set to become the 267th leader of the Catholic Church, taking on the papal name Leo XIV. Remarkably, he is the first American to be appointed as Pope, though his extensive missionary work in Peru has also positioned him as closely aligned with Latin America. Born in Chicago in 1955 to parents of Spanish and Franco-Italian heritage, Prevost’s journey in the Church began early as an altar boy. He was ordained a priest in 1982, and three years thereafter, he embarked on a mission to Peru. Despite his new life in South America, he frequently visited the United States, serving as both a pastor and prior in his hometown. With Peruvian citizenship, Prevost is warmly remembered for his efforts in aiding marginalized groups and fostering community connections. For a decade, he dedicated himself as a parish pastor and seminary teacher in Trujillo, a city in northwestern Peru.

Upon assuming the papacy, Leo XIV spoke highly of his predecessor, Francis, reflecting on the inspiring, albeit frail, presence of his leadership. “We hear the brave whispers of Pope Francis who bestowed blessings upon us,” he expressed to the enthusiastic gathered masses. In his address, he emphasized partnership with the divine, “Together with God’s guidance, let us journey forward,” he encouraged. His connection to the Augustinian Order is pivotal; he moved to Peru at age 30 to join an Augustinian mission, and Francis later appointed him as the Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru shortly after becoming Pope.

Prevost is familiar to many cardinals due to his influential position as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Latin America, a role integral in appointing and overseeing bishops. Ascending to the role of archbishop in January 2023, he was elevated to cardinal status by Francis within months. Prevost is noted for embracing Francis’ perspectives on issues like immigration, poverty, and environmental concerns. He actively participated in the discourse by sharing critical commentary on social media, rebuking the Trump administration’s deportation policies, and questioning discussions on Fox News.

Although an American by nationality, Prevost’s deep ties to Latin America symbolize continuity following a pontiff from Argentina. The Vatican portrays him as the second pope from the Americas, succeeding Francis, and he holds the distinction of being the first pope from the Augustinian order. During his time in Peru, Prevost has not been untouched by the sexual abuse scandals that have haunted the Church, though his diocese has strongly denied any involvement or cover-up attempts on his part.