Focus on the BIG picture.
Thursday, Feb 19, 2026
Outside the box.
Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV, Marking a Historic Papacy
Robert Prevost becomes the first American pope and signals continuity with the progressive themes of the late Pope Francis.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first pope from the United States.
At 69 years of age, Prevost, originally from Chicago, has a notable history as a global leader and missionary, particularly in South America.
He spent over a decade in Peru, first working in Trujillo and later serving as the bishop of Chiclayo from 2014 until his new appointment in 2023.
Known for his fluency in Spanish and Italian, Prevost demonstrated his linguistic skills during his inaugural address from St. Peter’s Square.
His election is seen as a continuation of the vision established by his predecessor, Pope Francis, particularly with respect to addressing issues surrounding poverty and supporting marginalized communities.
Prevost's background includes significant roles within the Vatican, most recently as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, where he was responsible for selecting candidates for bishop appointments.
He has also led the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, underlining his commitment to the Catholic Church in the region.
During his initial comments after his election, Pope Leo XIV invoked the legacy of St. Augustine, indicating his position as a bridge between church leaders and parishioners.
He expressed a self-identification as a missionary, stating his vocation involves proclaiming the Gospel universally.
Though born in the United States, Prevost garnered the reputation of being the “least American” among U.S. cardinals during his time in the Vatican.
His dual citizenship, registered in August 2015, reflects his connection to Peru and aligns with President Dina Boluarte's characterization of his election as a historic event for both Peru and the global community.
His name choice, Leo, pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, who famously advocated for workers’ rights and social justice from 1878 to 1903.
This aligns Leo XIV with progressive aspects of church doctrine while also allowing him the flexibility to address moderate views on some moral issues.
Prevost's educational background includes a mathematics degree from Villanova University, followed by a theology diploma from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.
He also pursued canon law studies in Rome and later taught it at a seminary in Trujillo.
In his personal life, Prevost has expressed a passion for tennis, reading, and traveling, pursuits that reflect his interest in engaging with diverse cultures.
His reputation as a calm and balanced leader has been noted by colleagues, suggesting broad appeal within the College of Cardinals, necessary for securing the two-thirds majority required for papal election.
At 69 years of age, Prevost, originally from Chicago, has a notable history as a global leader and missionary, particularly in South America.
He spent over a decade in Peru, first working in Trujillo and later serving as the bishop of Chiclayo from 2014 until his new appointment in 2023.
Known for his fluency in Spanish and Italian, Prevost demonstrated his linguistic skills during his inaugural address from St. Peter’s Square.
His election is seen as a continuation of the vision established by his predecessor, Pope Francis, particularly with respect to addressing issues surrounding poverty and supporting marginalized communities.
Prevost's background includes significant roles within the Vatican, most recently as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, where he was responsible for selecting candidates for bishop appointments.
He has also led the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, underlining his commitment to the Catholic Church in the region.
During his initial comments after his election, Pope Leo XIV invoked the legacy of St. Augustine, indicating his position as a bridge between church leaders and parishioners.
He expressed a self-identification as a missionary, stating his vocation involves proclaiming the Gospel universally.
Though born in the United States, Prevost garnered the reputation of being the “least American” among U.S. cardinals during his time in the Vatican.
His dual citizenship, registered in August 2015, reflects his connection to Peru and aligns with President Dina Boluarte's characterization of his election as a historic event for both Peru and the global community.
His name choice, Leo, pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, who famously advocated for workers’ rights and social justice from 1878 to 1903.
This aligns Leo XIV with progressive aspects of church doctrine while also allowing him the flexibility to address moderate views on some moral issues.
Prevost's educational background includes a mathematics degree from Villanova University, followed by a theology diploma from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.
He also pursued canon law studies in Rome and later taught it at a seminary in Trujillo.
In his personal life, Prevost has expressed a passion for tennis, reading, and traveling, pursuits that reflect his interest in engaging with diverse cultures.
His reputation as a calm and balanced leader has been noted by colleagues, suggesting broad appeal within the College of Cardinals, necessary for securing the two-thirds majority required for papal election.
