POPE Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, is a Chicago native whose journey to the papacy is as compelling as it is historic. Born and raised in the vibrant neighbourhoods of Chicago, Leo was shaped by the city’s rich tapestry of immigrant communities and Catholic parishes. He attended university near Philadelphia, where his academic and spiritual formation deepened, setting the stage for a life dedicated to service and faith.
After his studies, Prevost embarked on a transformative missionary journey to Peru. There, he immersed himself in the struggles of the marginalised, working closely with indigenous and impoverished communities. His years in Peru left an indelible mark, forging his commitment to social justice and pastoral care. This Latin American experience earned him the nickname “The Latin Yankee” in Rome, highlighting his unique blend of American roots and deep ties to the Global South.
Prevost’s reputation as a bridge-builder and advocate for the vulnerable propelled him through the ranks of the Church. His close rapport with Pope Francis, himself a champion of the poor from Argentina, positioned him as a leading voice for continuity and reform. As a cardinal, Leo XIV was known for his outspoken advocacy on issues such as immigration, racial justice, and gun control, while maintaining traditional stances on matters like same-sex marriage and transgender rights.
The election of Leo XIV as the first American pope comes at a time of global turmoil and intense political polarization in the United States. His selection has been widely celebrated as a “new day for modern American Catholicism,” with progressive Catholic groups lauding his commitment to social justice. World leaders and American politicians, from President Donald Trump to former Presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama, have congratulated him, underscoring the significance of his appointment for both the Church and the nation.
Pope Leo XIV’s relationship with President Donald Trump is marked by both mutual recognition and sharp ideological contrasts. While Trump called Leo’s election a “great honor” and expressed eagerness to meet him, Leo has not shied away from criticizing Trump’s policies-especially on immigration and refugee issues. Throughout Trump’s first presidency, Leo (then Cardinal Prevost) used social media to denounce the administration’s actions against refugees and family separation at the border, calling them “immoral” and “not remotely Christian, American or morally defensible”.
In 2025, Leo continued to challenge Trump’s agenda, particularly highlighting the suffering caused by harsh immigration policies and urging a more compassionate, globally minded approach. He also criticized Vice President JD Vance’s interpretation of Christian love, insisting that “Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others”.
Pope Leo XIV stands as both a symbol of American Catholic pride and a global spiritual leader deeply rooted in the Church’s mission to serve the marginalized. His papacy is expected to be one of engagement with the world’s crises-war, migration, and growing secularism-while navigating the delicate balance between tradition and reform. As the world turns to the Vatican for guidance, all eyes are on Leo XIV to see whether his bold vision and Chicago-born tenacity will inspire a new chapter for the Catholic Church and its 1.4 billion faithful.
Key Milestones in Pope Leo XIV’s Early Life
1. Chicago Roots and Family Upbringing
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, spent his childhood and adolescence in Chicago. He was raised in a family environment that valued faith and education, which laid a strong spiritual and intellectual foundation for his future.
2. Early Religious Education
Prevost began his formal religious studies at the Minor Seminary of the Augustinian Fathers. He continued his academic journey at Villanova University, deepening his theological knowledge and commitment to the Church.
3. Missionary Work and Life in Peru
A pivotal milestone in his early adulthood was his move to Peru. There, Prevost served as a missionary, pastor, and eventually bishop. His years in Peru were transformative, exposing him to the challenges faced by marginalized communities and shaping his deep empathy for the poor and vulnerable.
4. Dual Identity and Global Perspective
Prevost’s unique experience as both an American and a Peruvian citizen gave him a rare dual perspective. This cross-cultural background enabled him to build bridges between North and South America and foster a global vision for the Church.
5. Leadership in the Latin American Church
His leadership roles in Peru included running the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, which further developed his skills in administration, diplomacy, and advocacy for social justice.
These milestones-rooted in his Chicago upbringing, rigorous religious education, missionary zeal in Peru, and leadership in Latin America-shaped Pope Leo XIV’s worldview and prepared him for the challenges of the modern papacy.
