Pope Leo XIV (September 14, 1955) from Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost is from the Order of Saint Augustine (OSA), earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and obtained a Master of Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union. He achieved both a licentiate and doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas .
Prevost's missionary work took him to Peru in the mid-1980s, where he served in various capacities, including as a parish pastor, seminary teacher, and diocesan official. His deep connection with Peru led to his naturalization as a Peruvian citizen. In 2001, he was elected Prior General of the Augustinian Order, a position he held until 2013.
In 2015, Pope Francis appointed him as the Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru. His leadership and experience culminated in his 2023 appointment as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, making him responsible for overseeing the selection of bishops worldwide. Later that year, he was elevated to the College of Cardinals .
