History was made on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, when Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States was elected as the new pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Now known as Pope Leo XIV, he becomes the first American to ascend to the papacy.

While many around the world celebrate his election, few know much about the man behind the name. Here are 10 interesting facts about the newly elected pope.

1. He was born in Chicago, Illinois
Robert Francis Prevost was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, a city known for its diverse Catholic communities.

2. He’s a member of the Augustinian Order
Before becoming a bishop, Prevost was a friar in the Order of St. Augustine—one of the oldest religious orders in the Catholic Church.

3. He was a missionary in Peru for many years
Pope Leo XIV spent over a decade in Peru, where he served in pastoral work, trained priests, and led Augustinian communities in remote areas.

4. He speaks multiple languages
In addition to English and Spanish, he also speaks Italian and Latin, making him well-equipped to lead the Church’s international community.

5. He was appointed by Pope Francis
In 2023, Pope Francis appointed Prevost as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a key role that oversees the appointment of bishops worldwide.

6. He is known for humility and simplicity
Those who have worked closely with him describe him as soft-spoken, deeply spiritual, and a man of the people.

7. He has academic credentials
He holds a Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome.

8. He was not a favourite at the start of the conclave
Though respected, Prevost was considered an outsider. His election surprised many analysts, showing the Holy Spirit can work in unexpected ways.

9. He chose the name ‘Leo XIV’ to honour a past reformer pope
His papal name is a nod to Pope Leo XIII, a social reformer who emphasized justice, workers’ rights, and modern engagement with society.

10. He’s committed to global unity in the Church
As the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV has spoken of building bridges across cultures, listening to local churches, and embracing reform in tradition.


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The world watches with anticipation as Pope Leo XIV begins his papal ministry. For Catholics in Ghana and around the world, his leadership marks the beginning of a new chapter.