Leo XIV
267th Pope of the Catholic Church (2025–)
Leo XIV: an Augustinian path from Chicago to Rome
Studies and the Augustinian order
Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, the future Leo XIV studied mathematics at Villanova University before entering the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977. He was ordained a priest in 1982 and studied canon law in Rome.
Peru and leadership of the order
Prevost served in Augustinian missions in Peru, including work in Trujillo as a formator and teacher. He later led the order as prior general for two terms, then returned to Peru as bishop of Chiclayo in 2015.
Responsibilities in Rome and election
Pope Francis appointed him prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023 and made him a cardinal that year. Elected pope in May 2025, he took the name Leo XIV. His earlier work had linked religious formation, a Peruvian diocese and the Vatican’s selection of bishops.
Data and sources
Vatican News — Biography of Pope Leo XIV ↗