Pope Leo XIV Chosen as New Head of Roman Catholic Church

MAY 9, 2025 |

Photo – Pope Leo XIV – Courtesy Catholic News

The new Pope of the Roman Catholic Church hails from the southside of Chicago. The former cardinal, Robert F. Prevost, was born September 14, 1955, The 69-year-old may very well have a 20+ year papacy if he lives into his late 80s.

In his first words as Pope Leo XIV, the new leader of the church proclaimed “peace be with you,” invoking a message of dialogue, unity and care for those in need. Speaking in Latin from a balcony on the high walls of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo greeted the crowds gathered in Vatican City.

This marks the first time an American has been chosen as a pope.

The Chicago Tribune reported Thursday that while growing up in the south suburbs of the Windy City, Prevost often played “pretend priest,” setting up a table draped in a white cloth and recited prayers.

John Prevost, the pope’s older brother, said his younger sibling took the game seriously. Prevost said his younger brother embodies the spirit of a “second Pope Francis.”