Posted: Friday, May 9, 2025. 8:59 am CST.
By Zoila Palma: Robert Francis Prevost, 69, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American—and second from the Americas after Francis—to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
Born in Chicago to immigrant parents, Prevost spent decades as a missionary and pastor in Peru, where he gained citizenship and a reputation for working with marginalized communities.
He was made a cardinal in 2023 and previously served as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a key role overseeing bishop appointments in Latin America, BBC reports.
In his first public remarks as pope, Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor and called for unity and faith. His choice of the name “Leo” is seen as a nod to the Church’s historic social justice commitments.
While his full policy direction remains to be seen, Leo XIV is expected to continue many of Francis’ priorities, including care for the poor, support for migrants, and environmental advocacy.
His views on LGBT issues appear more cautious, though he has supported some progressive measures within the Church.
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The post International News: Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV, First American Pontiff appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Friday, May 9, 2025. 8:59 am CST. By Zoila Palma: Robert Francis Prevost, 69, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American—and
The post International News: Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV, First American Pontiff appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
