The first American pope succeeds Francis, preaching peace while confronting Church divides and urgent global crises.

Chicago native Robert Prevost is now the first pope ever from the United States. He chose Leo XIV as his papal name. People who knew him in his early days remember a friendly young man who had a calling.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost – now known as Pope Leo XIV — is the first pope from the United States. The 69-year-old from Chicago is known as a leader with global experience. He spent much of his career as a missionary in South America and most recently led a powerful Vatican office for bishop appointments.