Who Is Robert Prevost, the New Pope With Latin Roots and a Reformist Vision

Robert Prevost is the new Pope

He was elected as Francis’s successor

He has Latin roots and a pastoral vision

The American cardinal Robert Francis Prevost Martínez has been elected the new Pope, succeeding Francis after his death.

At 69 years old, the Augustinian born in Chicago becomes the first American pontiff and one of the few with Hispanic heritage.

Who is Robert Prevost?

Who Is Robert Prevost, the New Pope – Photo: Shuttersock

Why His Election Is Significant

Robert Prevost assumes the papacy with a strong ecclesiastical background, extensive academic training, and ideological alignment with Pope Francis.

Pope Francis appointed him prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023.

His election reinforces Francis’s pastoral legacy on topics such as the preferential option for the poor, migration, and synodality in the Church.

From Missionary in Peru to Church Leader

Robert Prevost was a missionary in Peru for nearly two decades, where he led Augustinian communities, taught canon law, and served as bishop of Chiclayo.

He also held key positions in the Vatican and within bishops’ conferences.

Although he was accused of covering up alleged abuse in his diocese, those claims were denied by the Peruvian Church and labeled false by journalist Pedro Salinas.

Between the Lines:

Robert Prevost has expressed support for a Church that stands with the marginalized and is engaged in the fight against climate change, but he has maintained traditional views on topics such as female priesthood.

His Career in Numbers:

7 Vatican dicasteries feature on his agenda

3 doctorates and master’s degrees back his expertise as a canon lawyer

Over 20 years of service in Peru

Appointed bishop by Francis in 2014 and cardinal in 2023

What He Says:

On Francis: “A man who wanted to live the Gospel with authenticity and coherence.”

On migrants: “We must be close to those who suffer and have the heart of Jesus Christ.”

On female priesthood: “Clericalizing women doesn’t necessarily solve a problem.”

The Vision the New Pope Brings:

A synodal Church, committed to the poor, active in addressing climate change, and firm in its traditional doctrinal values.

Robert Prevost’s appointment may signal continuity with the social and pastoral direction of the previous pontificate, while also suggesting some resistance to more radical structural changes within the Church.

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