Pope Leo XIV: What awaits new Pope
As the crowds gathered outside St. Peter’s Basilica erupted in chants of “Viva il Papa,” Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was announced as the new Pope Leo XIV, becoming the 267th successor of St. Peter. The historic event marked the first time an American has assumed the papacy though Prevost is often regarded as a Latin American church figure due to his extensive missionary work in Peru.
Born in Chicago in 1955 to parents of Spanish and Franco-Italian descent, Prevost was an altar boy before being ordained in 1982. He moved to Peru three years later, where he served as a parish priest, teacher and community organizer, earning Peruvian nationality and becoming a well-respected figure among marginalized groups. Prevost’s dedication to social justice and bridging communities has characterized his ecclesiastical career.
In his first remarks as pope, Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis. “We still hear in our ears the weak but courageous voice of Pope Francis who blessed us,” he said to a cheering crowd. “United and hand in hand with God, let us advance together.” He also expressed his connection to the Augustinian Order for which he is a member.
Previously, appointed Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru in 2014, Prevost served as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Latin America a key role in overseeing the selection and supervision of bishops across the region. Elevated to archbishop in January 2023 and made a cardinal shortly thereafter by Pope Francis, he is considered a moderate aligned with the pope’s progressive stance on issues like migration, poverty and environmental stewardship.
Experts note that Prevost’s choice of the name Leo signifies a commitment to social justice, echoing the legacy of Pope Leo XIII who addressed workers’ rights during a time of upheaval. Historical figures bearing the name have been known for their advocacy on social issues including Attila the Hun’s negotiations and Leo XIII’s writings on labor.
Former Archbishop of Boston Seán Patrick O’Malley commented that Leo XIV’s papacy may continue Francis’s focus on marginalized communities though his views on LGBT issues remain somewhat unclear. While supportive of blessings for same-sex couples, Prevost has emphasized the importance of local cultural contexts in church decisions.
Environmental concerns also feature prominently in his outlook. Last year, he called for the Church to take concrete action against climate change advocating for renewable energy initiatives at the Vatican including solar panels and electric vehicles. He also supports the inclusion of women in leadership roles within the Church praising their contributions to episcopal discernment and decision-making.
Though his tenure begins amidst ongoing challenges including past scandals in Peru, Prevost’s leadership is seen as a potential force for stability and social justice within the global Catholic community. His commitment to addressing contemporary issues such as climate change, social inequality and inclusion suggests a pope focused on both tradition and transformation.
