On May 8, history was made in the Sistine Chapel. On the fourth ballot, white smoke rose, the world watched in suspense, and then came the announcement: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the new Pope, taking the name Leo XIV. and becoming the first Augustinian pope in history.
But this isn’t just another papal election. It’s a story of love, faith, and a life transformed far from home.
🛫 Born in Chicago. Reborn in Peru. 🇺🇸🇵🇪
Robert Prevost didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming Pope. He started holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Villanova University, a Master of Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, and a Bachelor of Arts and Doctorate magna cum laude in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome. His doctoral thesis was on The Role of the Local Prior of the Order of Saint Augustine, but beyond this extensive academic preparation, he is recognized for his conciliatory approach, his international experience, and his commitment to intercultural and interreligious dialogue and a deep faith. That faith led him to Chiclayo, Peru, as a young missionary and there, everything changed.
He didn’t speak the language. He didn’t know the culture. But he listened. He walked dusty streets, shared food, learned Spanish with love, and gave his heart to a people who welcomed him like family. They didn’t call him “Cardinal”, they called him “Father Robert.”
Robert Francis Prevost, Leo XIV, Timeline
💬 “I am Peruvian. Because you’re not from where you’re born, but from where you give your soul.”
Years later, his humility and wisdom led Pope Francis to bring him to Rome. As a bishop and later a cardinal, he stayed true to his roots simple, faithful, close to the people.
Now, as Pope Leo XIV, he steps into the most important mission of his life. He didn’t receive a promotion, but a cross.
He didn’t receive an award, receive a very big responsibility in the world. Not as a man seeking power, but as a servant of unity. His motto, “In Illo Uno Unum”, “In God we are one”, says it all. 🙏
With the light and the strength of the Holy Spirit, let us build a Church founded on God’s love, a sign of unity, a missionary Church that opens its arms to the world, proclaims the word, allows itself to be made “restless” by history, and becomes a leaven of harmony for humanity
— Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex) May 18, 2025
🌍 Why it matters:
At a time when the world faces division and uncertainty, we need leaders who build bridges, not walls. Pope Leo XIV brings hope, compassion, and a global heart, shaped in Chicago, transformed in Peru, and now beating for the world from the Vatican.
Today, Peru and Latin America recognize him as their own. Because whoever truly loves a land ends up sowing their seeds there forever. Pray for Pope Leo XIV as he carries the cross of leadership with humility and courage. May the Holy Spirit guide his every step.
➡️ Follow, Share, and Tag @Pontifex to show your support and welcome him to this new chapter. We are one Church. One people. One faith. 🌍
#PopeLeoXIV ✝️ #NewPope 🕊️ #HeartOfAServant
#FromChicagoToChiclayo 🇺🇸🇵🇪 #OneChurchOneFaith
