Joined the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977
Ordained a priest in 1982 by Jean Jadot
Served as a missionary and parish priest in Peru (1985–1986, 1988–1998)
Became a naturalized Peruvian citizen
Elected Prior General of the Augustinian Order (2001–2013)
Appointed Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru (2015–2023)
In 2023, became Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America
Named cardinal by Pope Francis in September 2023
Elected Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025
Studied mathematics at Villanova University, Pennsylvania
Earned a doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, Rome
Image source:IG/-
Pope Leo XIV First American-born pope
First pope from the Order of Saint Augustine
First Peruvian pope
Oversaw global bishop appointments
Renowned for canon law expertise and international connections
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Updated October 14, 2026
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Updated September 30, 2026