Robert Francis Prevost made headlines by becoming the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, adopting the name Pope Leo XIV. Born in Chicago, Prevost is the first American to hold this significant position, surprising many who believed an American could not rise to such heights. The 69-year-old has spent much of his ministry abroad, notably in Peru, where he became a bishop and a naturalized citizen.
As a member of the Order of St. Augustine and a former Vatican official overseeing the global appointment of bishops, he mirrors his predecessor, Pope Francis, in his dedication to supporting the marginalized and connecting with community members. He believes in an accessible church, stating that bishops shouldn't act as isolated rulers.
Having been ordained in 1982 and earning a doctorate in canon law in Rome, he has a wealth of experience. Fluent in Spanish and Italian, he has visited religious communities worldwide and is recognized for his discreet nature. While he may have a different style from Francis, supporters hope he will continue the inclusive dialogue with laypeople initiated by his predecessor.
However, it's uncertain whether he will share Francis's open-minded approach towards LGBTQ+ Catholics, given his past critiques of societal acceptance of alternative lifestyles and families. Moreover, Prevost has faced scrutiny over his handling of sexual abuse cases within the church. As the world watches, precedents are set in this new chapter of the Papacy, with Pope Leo XIV poised to shape the future of the Catholic Church in unprecedented ways.
