Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, serving as Cardinal-Bishop of Albano and Prefect Emeritus of the Dicastery for Bishops. Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, he’s a member of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.). Here are some key facts about him.
Early Life and Education
Prevost holds degrees from Villanova University (Bachelor of Science in Mathematics), Catholic Theological Union in Chicago (Master of Divinity), and the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome (Licentiate and Doctorate in Canon Law).
Career Highlights
Missionary Work
Spent many years as a missionary in Peru, serving as chancellor of the Territorial Prelature of Chulucanas and bishop of Chiclayo.
Leadership Roles
Elected prior general of the Augustinians, serving two terms from 2001 to 2013.
Dicastery for Bishops
Appointed prefect in January 2023, overseeing bishop appointments worldwide.
Cardinalate
Elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis on September 30, 2023, and appointed Cardinal-Deacon of Santa Monica.
Views and Stances Synodality
Strong supporter of synodality, emphasizing the importance of consultation and lay involvement.
Same-Sex Couples
Expressed reservations about sympathy for beliefs contradicting the gospel but showed mild support for Fiducia Supplicans, allowing non-liturgical blessings for couples in irregular situations.
Ten things to know about Pope Leo…
- Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was on Thursday, 8th of May 2025, elected the new Catholic Pope.
- He was born in Chicago, USA, on September 14, 1955.
- Prevost is a member of the Order of St. Augustine (OSA), and as well the first American pope.
- He will be known as Pope Leo XIV.
- Cardinal Prevost began his religious journey as an Augustinian friar and was ordained a priest in 1982.
- He is fluent in Spanish and has close familiarity with Latin American realities, which have greatly shaped his ecclesial vision.
- In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo in northern Peru.
- In April 2023, he was called to Rome and appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a position of immense responsibility.
- In September 2023, Pope Francis elevated him to the rank of Cardinal, becoming one of the Holy Father’s closest collaborators in the governance of the Church.
- Known for his theological clarity, calm demeanor, and grounded spirituality, Cardinal Prevost also has a profound respect for tradition while remaining sensitive to the pastoral needs of the present day.