In a moment of grace for the Church, Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., has been elected as the 267th Bishop of Rome, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. A native of Chicago and the first Augustinian to ascend the Chair of Peter, Pope Leo XIV brings with him a rich legacy of missionary zeal, pastoral care, and ecclesial leadership.

Born on 1955-09-14, Pope Leo XIV embraced religious life early, professing vows in the Order of Saint Augustine and receiving ordination in Rome in 1982. His missionary heart led him to Peru, where he served the poor with compassion and dedication—as pastor, seminary professor, and judicial vicar. His deep formation in Canon Law and theology was paired with a lifetime of service in humble and often challenging settings.

From 1999, he led the Augustinian Province in Chicago, before serving two terms as Prior General of the worldwide Order. Pope Francis later appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, then Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the Church’s most critical leadership roles. He was made a Cardinal in 2023, participating actively in the Synod on Synodality and numerous Vatican commissions.

Pope Leo XIV's episcopal motto, "In Illo uno unum" ("In the One, we are one"), reflects a vision of unity in Christ. As he assumes the papacy in a time of global uncertainty and ecclesial renewal, the Church looks to him as a bridge-builder rooted in service, fraternity, and Gospel fidelity.

May the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV be a time of renewed hope, deep listening, and missionary courage.