American Pope: Cardinal Robert F. Prevost takes the name Pope Leo XIV

In a historic development for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the regnal name Pope Leo XIV. 

His election on May 8, 2025, marks the first time an American-born prelate has ascended to the papacy.

Pope's First Words

"Peace be with all of you!" were the first words of Pope Leo XIV. The new pope was announced to the waiting crowds by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti.

A Life of Service Across Continents

Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost entered the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and professed his solemn vows in 1981. He was ordained a priest on June 19, 1982. He pursued advanced studies in canon law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome, earning his doctorate in 1985.

Prevost dedicated a significant portion of his ministry to Peru, serving in various capacities including chancellor of the Territorial Prelature of Chulucanas and director of formation for Augustinian aspirants in Trujillo. His leadership roles extended to serving as judicial vicar and professor of canon, patristic, and moral law in the Archdiocese of Trujillo.

In 1999, he was elected provincial prior of the Augustinian Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel in Chicago. Two years later, he became the prior general of the Order of Saint Augustine, a position he held until 2013. 

Peruvian-Americans celebrate new Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV is the first American-born pope, and has deep roots in Peru. Peruvian Americans are celebrating the announcement.

Episcopal and Curial Leadership

Appointed by Pope Francis, Prevost became the apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, in 2014 and was consecrated as a bishop on December 12 of that year. He served as the bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023. In 2023, he was appointed prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.

Pope Francis created Prevost cardinal in the consistory of September 30, 2023, and assigned him the Diaconate of Saint Monica.

Significance of the Name Leo XIV

By choosing the name Leo XIV, the new pope aligns himself with a legacy of strong leadership and doctrinal clarity. The last pope to bear the name, Leo XIII, served from 1878 to 1903 and was known for his intellectual contributions and social teachings.

Local Reaction:

LA Catholics react to election of new American pope

In a historic development for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the regnal name Pope Leo XIV.

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles quickly welcomed the new pope, tweeting "LA Catholics give thanks to God for His Holiness Pope Leo XIV."

Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson wrote, "Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on his election. His leadership holds deep meaning for many here in Long Beach and around the world. We wish him wisdom and peace as he begins this sacred journey."

"This is a historic moment when a pope passes -- God bless Pope Francis -- and to see a selection so quickly is remarkable," he said. " ... We are in the Easter season, this is a period of time between Easter Sunday and the Pentecost. It's the holiest of seasons for the Catholics, and to have all of this come to fruition during this holy season is really remarkable. I didn't think in my lifetime I would see an American pope," said LA City Councilman Tim McOsker.

"His appointment marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church and for millions who look to the Church for moral leadership in a complex world." said Rep. Nanette D. Barragán, D-Los Angeles.

Diocese of Orange Bishop Kevin Vann, Auxiliary Bishop Timothy E. Freyer and Auxiliary Bishop Thanh Thai Nguyen issued a joint statement hailing the papal selection.

"Bishop Vann, the bishops, priests, deacons, religious and the Catholic faithful of the Diocese of Orange join the entire world today in giving thanks to God for the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, a man of great faith and integrity who will lead the church in a journey of faith, hope and love," they said.

Looking Ahead

As Pope Leo XIV begins his pontificate, the global Catholic community anticipates a continuation of his commitment to pastoral care, ecclesial reform, and engagement with contemporary issues facing the Church.