Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV: 10 Things to Know About 1st American Pope

It is no longer news that Cardinal Robert Prevost, an American-born cleric with deep missionary roots in Latin America, has been elected as the new Pope, succeeding Pope Francis.

After two days of voting within the hallowed halls of the Sistine Chapel, the decision was made. A plume of white smoke signaled to the world that a new leader for over 1.3 billion Catholics had been chosen. Moments later, Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and declared, “Habemus Papam!”—Latin for “We have a Pope!”

Now known as Pope Leo XIV, Prevost becomes the 267th occupant of the Papal throne.

Here are ten key facts about the man now leading the Roman Catholic Church:

1. Historic First: Leo XIV is the first American ever elected Pope, though he also holds Peruvian citizenship.

2. Chosen Name: He has taken the name Leo XIV, following in the footsteps of 13 previous Popes named Leo.

3. Missionary Experience: Prevost served for many years as a missionary in Peru, building lasting ties with communities in Latin America.

4. Chicago Roots: He was born in 1955 in Chicago to parents of Spanish and Franco-Italian descent.

5. Ordination and Order: He was ordained a priest in 1982 and joined the Augustinian Order, known for its emphasis on community life and learning.

6. Decade in Trujillo: In Peru, he spent over 10 years as a parish pastor and taught at a seminary in Trujillo, northwest Peru.

7. Appointed by Francis: Pope Francis made him Bishop of Chiclayo, and in 2023, elevated him to the position of cardinal.

8. Key Vatican Role: He served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a vital post responsible for selecting and supervising bishops—especially in Latin America.

9. Champion of the Marginalized: He is widely respected for his work with the poor and marginalized and for promoting peace and inclusion.

10. Vision for the Church: In his first speech, Pope Leo XIV spoke of unity, courage, and carrying forward the mission of his predecessor, Pope Francis.

Story by Dayo Emmanuel