Context:

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, was recently elected as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, a moment that resonated deeply with many in Chicago, where he grew up. Known affectionately as 'Bob' by those who knew him, including Rev. William Lego, his election was seen as a testament to his longstanding commitment to social justice and the poor. Prevost's early life was steeped in Catholic tradition, having been raised in a devout family in the Riverdale neighborhood and educated in religious institutions. His educational journey took him from St. Augustine Seminary to Villanova University, and eventually back to Chicago for theological training. The Archdiocese of Chicago, home to millions of Catholics, expressed pride and astonishment at having one of their own elevated to such a prestigious position, highlighting his cultural and spiritual ties to the area.

Dive Deeper:

• Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost, hails from the Chicago area, where he grew up in a predominantly Catholic community, attending Mass regularly with his family at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish.

• Rev. William Lego, a friend since high school, praised Prevost's moral compass and dedication to helping the underprivileged, qualities that made his election a point of pride for Chicagoans.

• Prevost's education was rooted in religious institutions, beginning with St. Augustine Seminary High School in Michigan, where he embraced the Augustinian tradition of communal living and learning.

• Following his seminary education, Prevost earned a Bachelor's degree in mathematics from Villanova University and later pursued a divinity degree in Chicago, cementing his commitment to the priesthood.

• The Chicago Archdiocese, which serves a significant Catholic population, reacted with excitement and pride, as many locals felt a personal connection to the new pope due to his deep roots in the area.

• His parents, Louis and Mildred Prevost, were influential in his religious upbringing; his father was a school superintendent, and his mother was active in parish life, fostering a strong Catholic identity in their household.

• As news of his papacy spread, Chicagoans expressed both amazement and pride in having an American, especially one from their own city, as the leader of the global Catholic community.