On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago was elected as Pope Leo XIV

           


Calitoday (09/05/2025):

Cali Today News - Today On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago was elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American-born Pope in the history.

His election occurred pope in the history of the Catholic Church, after the fourth ballot on the second day of the papal conclave, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025 .



Early Life and Education

Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost was raised in a devout Catholic family.

He earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Villanova University in 1977 and later obtained a Master of Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in 1982. He joined the Order of Saint Augustine and was ordained a priest in 1982 .



Missionary Work and Leadership Roles

Prevost dedicated a significant portion of his ministry to missionary work in Peru, where he served in various capacities, including parish priest, seminary professor, and diocesan official.

In 2015, he became the Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, and acquired Peruvian citizenship.

His leadership extended to the global stage when he was appointed as the Prior General of the Order of Saint Augustine from 2001 to 2013.



Vatican Service and Cardinalate

In 2023, Pope Francis appointed Prevost as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He was created a cardinal later that year.

His roles involved overseeing the selection of bishops worldwide and addressing issues pertinent to the Church in Latin America.



Papal Election and Vision

Prevost's election as Pope Leo XIV was marked by a message of peace and unity.

In his first address from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, he greeted the faithful with the words, "Peace be with all of you!"

He is perceived as a bridge-builder within the Church, aiming to continue the reformist path initiated by his predecessor, Pope Francis, while addressing contemporary challenges facing the global Catholic community.

Pope Leo XIV's unique background, combining American roots with extensive experience in Latin America, positions him to address the diverse needs of the Church in a globalized world.

HANH DUONG,