Discover the untold journey of Pope Leo XIV

From Altar Boy to Pope: The Journey of Robert Prevost

Before the white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope, Robert Prevost stood humbly beside two giants of faith — Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. These rare, throwback images reveal a man shaped by the legacy of greatness. Today, that same man carries the future of the Church on his shoulders. What prepared him for this divine responsibility?

Early Life and Education

Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost was raised in a devout Catholic family. His mother, Mildred, was of Afro-Haitian and French descent, while his father, Louis, was of French and Italian heritage. From a young age, Robert was deeply involved in his parish, serving as an altar boy and participating in the choir at St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Dolton, Illinois.

Prevost pursued higher education at Villanova University, earning a degree in mathematics. He then attended the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, where he earned a Master of Divinity degree. Fluent in several languages, including Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese, he also studied Latin and German, equipping himself for a global ministry.

Missionary Work in Peru

In 1985, Prevost joined the Order of Saint Augustine and embarked on a missionary journey to Peru. He served in various capacities, including chancellor of the Territorial Prelature of Chulucanas and later as a seminary teacher and administrator in Trujillo. His deep commitment to the Peruvian people earned him Peruvian citizenship in 2015. During this time, he gained recognition for his work with marginalized communities and his efforts to address social injustices.

Rise Within the Church

Prevost’s dedication and leadership did not go unnoticed. In 2014, he was appointed Apostolic Administrator of Chiclayo and later became the Bishop of Chiclayo in 2015. His tenure was marked by a focus on pastoral care and community outreach. In 2023, Pope Francis elevated him to the rank of cardinal and appointed him as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. These roles positioned him as a key figure in the Vatican and a potential papal candidate.

Election as Pope Leo XIV

On May 8, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis, the College of Cardinals convened to elect a new pope. After a brief conclave, Robert Prevost was elected as the 267th pope of the Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. His election was historic, as he became the first American to ascend to the papacy. In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized themes of unity, peace, and dialogue, reflecting his vision for a Church that is inclusive and compassionate.

Pope Leo XIV’s journey from an altar boy in Chicago to the leader of 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide is a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication to service. His experiences in Peru and his leadership roles within the Church have shaped his vision for a global Church that is responsive to the needs of all its members. As he embarks on this new chapter, the faithful look to him for guidance and inspiration, hopeful that his papacy will continue the legacy of compassion and inclusivity established by his predecessors.