Jobaaj Stories
The New Pope: How Old is Pope Leo XIV?
The world watched with bated breath as white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new Pope. And the announcement was historic: Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff! But how old is this groundbreaking leader of the Catholic Church? Let's delve into the life and age of this remarkable man.
A Life of Faith and Service
Born Robert Francis Prevost in 1955 in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV is 69 years old. His journey to the papacy is nothing short of extraordinary. From playing "priest" as a child in the working-class neighborhood of Dolton, Illinois, to becoming a respected cardinal, his life has been marked by unwavering devotion to his faith.
- Early Life: Brothers recall a childhood fascination with the priesthood, knowing even in kindergarten that he wanted to serve.
- Years in Peru: A significant portion of his life was spent as a missionary in Peru, where he earned the respect and admiration of the local community. He became known for his selfless dedication, wading through floods in 2022 to help those in need.
- Rise through the Church: His career within the Church saw him twice elected to the top position of the Augustinian religious order. He was appointed Cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023, holding a powerful position responsible for selecting new bishops.
His time in Peru, where he acquired citizenship, broadened his perspective and gave him a more global outlook, making him a compromise candidate well-suited for the papacy. While seen as a centrist, his progressive views on social issues such as environmentalism, outreach to the poor and migrants, and support for divorced and remarried Catholics receiving Communion, align with the progressive policies of Pope Francis.
However, his stances are not without nuance. He showed only mild support for Pope Francis’s blessing of same-sex couples and has faced criticism for not taking stronger action against accusations of sex abuse within the church. SNAP, a US-based advocacy group, expressed "grave concern" following his election, citing past allegations. Pope Leo XIV has however stated that the Church must be transparent and honest when dealing with such allegations.
Beyond the Vatican: A Chicagoan's Journey
Pope Leo XIV's background is deeply rooted in Chicago. He's registered to vote in the suburbs and his voting record reflects his engagement with the US political process. He’s also a known fan of Wordle and the Chicago White Sox. His brothers have shared anecdotes illustrating his childhood devotion and his enduring connection to his family. While his focus is now on the global Catholic community, his Chicago roots remain an essential part of his identity.
The Name Leo XIV: A Symbolic Choice
The selection of a papal name is significant. Pope Leo XIV chose Leo, a name used by 13 previous popes. This choice suggests a desire to emulate the qualities of these past leaders, perhaps drawing inspiration from Pope Leo I's diplomatic success in averting the destruction of Rome or Pope Leo XIII's ability to navigate modernity. It's a decision imbued with both historical weight and personal aspiration.
Conclusion: A New Era Begins
At 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV embarks on his papacy with a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to faith, and a blend of progressive and traditional viewpoints. His election marks a momentous occasion, making him not only the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics but also the first American-born Pope. His legacy is yet to be written, but his journey to the papacy has already captivated the world.
