Pope Leo XIV, whose birth name is Robert Francis Prevost, is the first American-born pope in the history of the Catholic Church. Born in Chicago in 1955, Prevost spent his life serving the church, first in Peru for over two decades, then in Rome, where he led the Vatican's office for bishops. He is known for his pastoral approach, his commitment to the poor and migrants, and his emphasis on dialogue and inclusivity. 

Early Life and Ordination:

• Robert Francis Prevost was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, to a family of French, Italian, and Spanish heritage. 

• He was raised in the south suburbs of Chicago, near Dolton, Illinois, and attended St. Mary of the Assumption parish. 

• He entered the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977, where he was ordained a priest in 1982. 

• He earned a doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. 

Service in Peru:

• Prevost spent over two decades serving in Peru, where he became Bishop of Chiclayo and a naturalized citizen.

• He served as a missionary, parish priest, teacher, and bishop in Peru.

• He is known for his work with the poor and marginalized in Peru. 

Augustinian Leadership:

• He served as the prior general of the Order of St. Augustine, an international religious order.

• He visited Augustinian orders around the world and is fluent in Spanish and Italian. 

Vatican Role:

• He was appointed by Pope Francis to head the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023, a powerful Vatican office that oversees episcopal appointments worldwide. 

• He is seen as a diplomat in the church and is known for his administrative strengths. 

Papacy:

• He was elected as Pope Leo XIV in 2025, becoming the first American-born pope.

• He is expected to continue the consultative process started by Pope Francis, inviting lay people to meet with bishops.

• He has been described as reserved and discreet but also committed to the poor and migrants.