CHICAGO -- The city is buzzing with excitement after the election of Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff in the history of the Roman Catholic Church. The announcement, made on May 8, 2025, has ignited a wave of pride among Chicagoans, reminiscent of the joy felt when Barack Obama was elected president in 2008. Sherry Stone, a childhood friend of Prevost, expressed her delight, saying, "I told him we're thinking of having our next grade school reunion at the Vatican." The election has sparked a flurry of memes and celebratory messages across social media, showcasing Leo XIV holding a hot dog and dipping his Italian beef into gravy.
Outside Wrigley Field, the Chicago Cubs congratulated the new pope with a sign that read, "Hey Chicago, He's a Cubs Fan!" Meanwhile, Bennison's Bakery in Evanston introduced a new sugar cookie featuring Prevost's likeness, declaring it "as divine as the moment." Illinois Governor JB Pritzker hailed the news as "historic," stating, "Pope Leo XIV ushers in a new chapter that I join those in our state welcoming in at a time when we need compassion, unity, and peace." Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson took to social media to congratulate the new pope, saying, "Everything dope, including the pope, comes from Chicago!"
Pope Leo XIV, born in Chicago in 1955, grew up in the suburb of Dolton. He attended St. Mary's of the Assumption, a now-closed grade school, and later earned his Master of Divinity from Catholic Theological Union in Hyde Park. He was ordained in 1982 and began his ministry with the Augustinian Province of Chicago. The Rev. William Lego, who attended school with Prevost, remarked on his intelligence and respectfulness, saying, "I'm sure that's what he will bring to the papacy."
Prevost's family background is rich with faith and community service. His father was a school principal and his mother was actively involved in their parish. Janet Sisler, a former associate superintendent for the Archdiocese of Chicago, noted that Prevost grew up in a family dedicated to faith and service, which likely influenced his commitment to social justice and community engagement.
In a remarkable twist, genealogical research revealed that Prevost is also descended from Creole people of color from New Orleans. His maternal grandparents, Joseph Martinez and Louise Baquié, were identified as people of color in historical records. This discovery underscores the diverse and complex fabric of American identity. Jari C. Honora, the genealogist who uncovered this information, expressed hope that it would highlight the long history of Black Catholics in the U.S.
The new pope's election comes with expectations of a centrist approach, as he is known for his compassionate and intelligent demeanor. Father Mark R. Francis described Prevost as "very calm, but extremely intelligent, and extremely compassionate." Before his papacy, Leo XIV served as the head of the church's Dicastery for Bishops, overseeing the selection of new bishops.
As a registered voter in the Chicago suburbs, Pope Leo XIV has participated in several elections, casting ballots in both Democratic and Republican primaries. His voting history includes the 2024 general election and various cycles dating back to 2000. His social media presence has also revealed his progressive stances on issues such as immigration, where he has been critical of the Trump administration's policies.
During his first Mass as pontiff in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, Leo XIV emphasized the importance of community and service, stating, "God has entrusted this treasure to me so that, with his help, I may be its faithful administrator for the sake of the entire mystical Body of the Church." He is set to hold his first general audience on May 21, 2025, and will be inaugurated in a formal Mass on May 18.
In terms of his theological positions, Pope Leo XIV has expressed concerns regarding the ordination of women as deacons, aligning with traditional Catholic doctrine. However, he has also recognized the need for increased women's participation in church leadership roles, having been involved in initiatives to appoint women to significant positions within the Vatican.
On LGBTQ+ rights, Leo XIV has maintained a cautious stance, echoing concerns about Western culture's acceptance of practices he views as contrary to gospel teachings. His past remarks indicate a commitment to respecting individual dignity while also upholding traditional church teachings.
Climate change is another area where Pope Leo XIV has shown alignment with his predecessor, advocating for action and responsibility in environmental stewardship. His call to move "from words to action" on climate issues reflects a continuity of focus on social justice and environmental ethics.
As the first Augustinian friar to lead the church, Leo XIV's election is a historic moment not only for the Catholic Church but also for the broader American narrative. His upbringing in Chicago, combined with his dual citizenship in Peru, positions him uniquely to address global issues with a perspective that encompasses both local and international concerns.
In the coming weeks, as he navigates his new role, the world will be watching how Pope Leo XIV balances tradition with the pressing needs of contemporary society. His election marks a significant milestone in the history of the Catholic Church, one that resonates deeply with many, particularly those in Chicago who see him as a symbol of hope and unity.
