Pope Leo XIV: First American and Augustinian Pontiff
Introducing Pope Leo XIV: The First American to Lead the Vatican
In a monumental moment for the Catholic Church, Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, made history as the first American pope. His election also marked a significant milestone as the first Augustinian to ascend to the papacy, following Pope Francis as the second pontiff from the Americas.
BREAKING! HABEMUS PAPAM! Cardinal Robert Prevost has been chosen as the 267th Roman Pontiff taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This is his first appearance to the city of Rome and the World from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.#catholicchurch #newpope #habemuspapam #popeleoxiv pic.twitter.com/kwVseMES7C
— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) May 8, 2025
Humble Beginnings in Illinois
Born and raised in Chicago, Prevost’s early spiritual formation began at St. Mary of the Assumption Church School in Dolton, Illinois, where he developed a love for faith and service. As a child, he actively participated in church life, assisting as an altar server and singing in the parish choir.
BREAKING! HABEMUS PAPAM! Cardinal Robert Prevost has been chosen as the 267th Roman Pontiff taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This is his first appearance to the city of Rome and the World from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.#catholicchurch #newpope #habemuspapam #popeleoxiv pic.twitter.com/kwVseMES7C
— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) May 8, 2025
His high school education took him to St. Augustine Seminary High School in Holland, Michigan, a minor seminary led by the Augustinian order. He graduated in 1973, laying the foundation for a lifelong religious vocation.
Academic Journey of Faith and Knowledge
In 1977, Prevost completed his undergraduate studies in Mathematics at Villanova University, a prominent Catholic university known for academic excellence. During his undergraduate studies, he also pursued philosophy. He later deepened his theological knowledge by completing a Master of Divinity at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.
His academic excellence continued in Rome, where he earned both a Licentiate and a Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) — one of the most prestigious theological schools in the world.
Global Leadership and Missionary Work
In 2001, Prevost was appointed Prior General of the Augustinian order, a position he held for two terms until 2013. Afterward, he returned to Peru, where he had previously served as a missionary, and was named the Bishop of Chiclayo.
His leadership and pastoral work were recognized globally, and in 2023, Pope Francis entrusted him with two major roles:
Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops
President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America
That same year, he was also elevated to the rank of cardinal, preparing the way for his historic papal election.
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