Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, was born in Chicago on September 14, 1955. He spent many years as a missionary in Peru before being elected head of the Augustians for two consecutive terms.
He spent his childhood and adolescence with his family and studied at the Minor Seminary of the Augustinian Fathers. Then, he went to study at Villanova University in Pennsylvania. In 1977, he earned a Degree in Mathematics and also studied Philosophy.
How to be elected as a Pope?
To be elected as a Pope, you have to be elected by two-thirds of the cardinals, you must be under 80 years old, you must also be an unmarried male adult, baptized and living in good standing with the Church.
When a new Bishop of Rome is elected, white smoke emerges from the Sistine Chapel. Then, he chooses a new name and receives the obedience of the Cardinals. Later, the senior cardinal deacon announces the name of the new Pope on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where the new universal Pastor of the Church will give his blessing to the people, the city, the Church, and the world.
What are the differences between Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis?
Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis have different approaches within the Catholic Church, although both are concerned about the situation of marginalized people. Pope Leo XIV is described as more reserved, cautious, and measured than Pope Francis, who has more of a charismatic and extroverted personality.
Although both are engaged in serving the poor, Pope Leo XIV seems more aligned with traditional teaching, while Pope Francis is known for his willingness to challenge some traditional norms.
On social issues, Pope Francis was known for his progressive views on topics such as LGBTQ+ rights and immigration, while Pope Leo XIV’s past statements suggest he may have different opinions on these issues.
According to The College of Cardinals Report, Robert F. Prevost expressed concerns in 2012 that Western culture promoted “sympathy for beliefs and practices that contradict the gospel” regarding the “homosexual lifestyle” and “alternative families made up of same-sex partners and their adopted children.”
Moreover, there are ongoing questions about how Pope Leo XIV will handle past cases of sexual abuse, because it is not clear yet what Pope Leo XIV’s position is on these matters.
