An American Contender for the Papacy: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost

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In the realm of papal elections, it’s a well-known notion to steer clear of betting on a pope from the United States. However, some Vatican analysts are beginning to suggest that Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost might just be the exception. Born in Chicago and proficient in multiple languages, Cardinal Prevost is recognized as a churchman who surpasses geographical boundaries. His journey has been diverse, having served over two decades in Peru, where he was ordained as a bishop and became a naturalized Peruvian citizen. Eventually, he rose to prominence leading his international religious order and now occupies a significant position within the Vatican.

Amidst the ideological discussions on whether to uphold Pope Francis’ inclusive vision or to revert to a more conservative path, Cardinal Prevost’s supporters propose him as a moderate and balanced choice among the papabili, the term for potential papal candidates.

The Rev. Michele Falcone, aged 46, who is part of the Order of St. Augustine previously led by Cardinal Prevost, describes him as embodying the dignified middle of the road. Cardinal Prevost mirrors Pope Francis in his dedication to aiding the impoverished and migrants, as well as his philosophy of meeting individuals in their circumstances. He once stated to the Vatican’s official news portal that “the bishop is not supposed to be a little prince sitting in his kingdom.” Instead, he believes a church leader should strive to be humble, closely connected to the people they serve, to walk alongside them, and share in their sufferings.

Appointed by Pope Francis in 2023 to oversee the Vatican department responsible for the selection and management of bishops worldwide, Cardinal Prevost has spent much of his life outside the United States. He was ordained in 1982 at the age of 27 and later earned a doctorate in canon law at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. In Peru, he served as a missionary, parish priest, educator, and bishop. Leading the Augustinians, he engaged with orders globally and is fluent in Spanish and Italian.