American born cardinal Robert Francis emerges new Pope of the Catholic Church, his early life and background

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., is an American-born prelate who has recently been elected as the new Pope, becoming the first American to hold this position in the history of the Catholic Church.  

Early Life and Education

Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Prevost comes from a family of French, Italian, and Spanish descent. He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics at Villanova University and later earned a Master of Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. He also holds a Licentiate and Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome.   

Religious Life and Missionary Work

In 1977, Prevost entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) and made his solemn vows in 1981. He was ordained a priest in 1982. His missionary journey took him to Peru in 1985, where he served in various capacities, including as chancellor of the Territorial Prelature of Chulucanas and later as director of formation and professor in Trujillo. His deep connection with Peru led to his naturalization as a Peruvian citizen in 2015.    

Leadership Roles

Prevost’s leadership within the Church is notable. He served as the Prior General of the Augustinian Order from 2001 to 2013. In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, and subsequently as its bishop in 2015. His tenure in Peru was marked by pastoral care and administrative leadership.    

Vatican Appointment and Cardinalate

In January 2023, Prevost was appointed by Pope Francis as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a significant role responsible for overseeing the selection of bishops worldwide. He was elevated to the College of Cardinals in September 2023, receiving the title of Cardinal-Deacon of Santa Monica.  

Election as Pope

On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Prevost was elected as the new Pope, marking a historic moment as the first American to ascend to the papacy. His election reflects his extensive experience, cross-cultural pastoral work, and alignment with the vision of Pope Francis.  

Pope Prevost is known for his humility, missionary zeal, and commitment to serving marginalized communities, embodying the qualities of servant leadership that are central to the