On May 8, 2025, history was made in Vatican City as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.

                                           


CALI TODAY NEWS - His election marks several firsts: he is the first American-born pope, the first from the Augustinian order, and the first pontiff with dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship.



A Life of Service Across Continents

Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Prevost was raised in a devout Catholic family. He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics at Villanova University, graduating in 1977.

He later obtained a Master of Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and both a Licentiate and Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome.

Ordained as a priest in 1982, Prevost dedicated much of his ministry to missionary work in Peru, where he served as a parish pastor, seminary teacher, and diocesan official. His commitment to the Augustinian order led to his election as Prior General from 2001 to 2013. In 2015, he became the Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, and was later appointed by Pope Francis in 2023 as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He was elevated to cardinal in 2023.



A Historic Election

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the College of Cardinals convened in a conclave that concluded on its second day with Prevost's election.

The announcement was made by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, proclaiming "Habemus Papam!" to the gathered faithful.

In his first address as pope, delivered in Italian and Spanish, Leo XIV greeted the world with the words, "Peace be with you all," and paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis.

He emphasized themes of unity, compassion, and the enduring love of God, declaring, "Evil will not prevail." 7



A Vision for the Church

Pope Leo XIV is seen as a continuation of Pope Francis's progressive legacy, with a focus on social justice, care for the marginalized, and environmental stewardship.

His extensive experience in Latin America and his leadership within the Church's hierarchy position him as a bridge between diverse cultures and perspectives within the global Catholic community.

While his views on certain issues, such as LGBTQ+ rights and clerical abuse, have been subjects of discussion, many anticipate that his papacy will strive for inclusivity and reform, addressing the challenges facing the Church in the modern world.

As Pope Leo XIV begins his pontificate, the world watches with hope and curiosity, eager to see how his leadership will shape the future of the Catholic Church.

NGUYEN DUONG