by Ferdinand M. Brizo
Amid the writing of history at the heart of the Vatican, a new light emerged from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on May 8, 2025. For the first time, an American has ascended to the highest seat of the Catholic Church — Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost. He is the 267th successor of St. Peter, elected on the fourth ballot by 133 Cardinal Electors during a conclave convened after the passing of Pope Francis on April 21.
A Pope from America
Born in Chicago in 1955, Pope Leo XIV is an Augustinian friar deeply rooted in pastoral mission. He holds dual citizenship in the United States and Peru and is well known for his vast missionary experience in Latin America. During his years in Peru, he served impoverished communities, fought for human rights, and forged a style of leadership that is both humble and resolute.
From Missionary to Prefect
Before being elected as the Supreme Pontiff, Cardinal Prevost served as Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops in the Vatican — a crucial position responsible for appointing bishops worldwide. In this role, he demonstrated strong leadership and a firm commitment to reform and unity within the Church.
The First “Urbi et Orbi” and a Message of Peace
In his first Urbi et Orbi blessing — a sacred greeting “to the city [of Rome] and to the world” — Pope Leo XIV proclaimed with heartfelt emotion: “Peace be with you all!” It was a call for unity, compassion, and hope in a time marked by conflict, injustice, and division.
Continuing a Progressive Legacy
He chose the name “Leo XIV” in tribute to Pope Leo XIII, a historical figure known for the encyclical Rerum Novarum, which championed workers’ rights and social justice. It is widely expected that the new Pope will continue Pope Francis’ progressive initiatives — from the implementation of synodality or shared leadership, to increased lay and women participation in the life of the Church.
The Church’s Future Under Pope Leo XIV
Many hope that under Pope Leo XIV’s leadership, issues such as ecology, financial transparency in the Vatican, interfaith dialogue, and care for the marginalized will gain renewed momentum. His experience in two different continents — North and South America — is seen as a vital bridge in addressing the global challenges of faith in the modern age.
At the Beginning of a New Journey
Pope Leo XIV’s ascent to the Throne of St. Peter is not merely a symbol of the continuity of faith, but also of transformation, hope, and the Catholic Church’s new journey. From a simple missionary in Peru to shepherd of the entire world, Pope Leo XIV embodies the truth that a genuine leader is one who knows how to listen, love, and sacrifice.
In his hands, the bark of St. Peter sails once more against the tides of history — not to drift away, but to come even closer to humanity.
(Bicol Peryodiko / Radyo Peryodiko) Sources: Vatican News/Catholic news/Associated Press/The Guardian
