From the central balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica, on 8 May 2025, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti declared to the world that the Church has a new shepherd. The 267th Bishop of Rome is Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who has taken the name Pope Leo XIV.

“Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: habemus Papam!”
“I announce to you with great joy: we have a Pope!”

This moment marks a new chapter in the journey of the Church, a step in continuity and hope, tradition and fresh vision.

A Son of the Americas, A Heart for the World

Pope Leo XIV becomes the second pope from the Americas, after Pope Francis, and the first from the United States. Though born in Chicago in 1955, his pastoral heart was shaped by the mission fields of Peru, where he served among the poor, taught seminarians, and lived the Gospel with humility and joy.

But Leo XIV brings another first aspect: he is the first Augustinian pope, drawn from the ancient order founded on the teachings of Saint Augustine, a man whose words inspired the pope’s motto:

“In Illo uno unum” – “In the One, we are one.”

From Mathematics to Mission: A Life of Wisdom and Witness

Educated at Villanova University and trained in theology in Chicago, young Robert entered the Augustinian novitiate in 1977. After ordination in Rome in 1982, he earned a doctorate in Canon Law and was sent to remote missions in Peru, where he became a spiritual father to many.

His leadership flourished: he served as General Prior of the Augustinian Order, as Bishop of Chiclayo, and later as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, guiding the global Church in choosing its shepherds. In 2024, Pope Francis made him a cardinal, entrusting him with increasing responsibilities at the heart of the Vatican.

A Pope for This Time

Pope Leo XIV steps forward as a man of dialogue, discipline, learning, and mercy. A bridge-builder between cultures, a listener in synodality, and a pastor deeply rooted in the Scriptures and the people he serves. His mission carries the hopes of the Americas, the wisdom of Augustine, and a pastoral sensibility shaped by years spent in the barrios of Peru and the corridors of the Curia.

A Pray for Pope Leo XIV

Lord Jesus Christ, guide Pope Leo XIV with wisdom and courage.
May he lead your Church with clarity, compassion, and faith.
May Mary, Mother of the Church, protect him under her mantle.
Saint Augustine, pray for him. Amen.

Text and Images based on: https://www.katholiekutrecht.nl/