We join the Church and the world in celebrating the election of our new Holy Father, Leo XIV.
On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—a native of Chicago and a lifelong Augustinian—was elected the 267th pope of the Catholic Church. With a rich background in missionary service and deep theological and pastoral experience, the new Holy Father brings a spirit of humility, compassion, and global perspective to his new role.
Before his election, he served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, shaping episcopal leadership across the world. His formative years as a missionary in Peru, where he led seminaries and supported the Church through times of political unrest, deeply influenced his pastoral outlook.
As Pope, he enters this sacred office with a focus on presence over power, mercy over division, and witness over noise. We pray that his pontificate will be a beacon of integrity, renewal, sound doctrine, healing, and hope for the Church and for our times. Amen.
May God bless Pope Leo XIV and guide him in his service to the people of God.
