Leo XIV: The People's Pope Bridging Peru and the U.S.
<< In Chiclayo, where he served as bishop from 2015 to 2023, he is known as the "Saint of the North" for his closeness to the poor and his work during na...>>
https://500palabras.pe/en/opinion.php?opinion_id=41
By: 500palabras.pe (redacción)
In a historic event, on May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church, taking the name Leo XIV. Born in Chicago and naturalized Peruvian, he becomes the first pontiff with dual U.S. and Peruvian nationality, as well as the first member of the Order of Saint Augustine to achieve the papacy. The election of Leo XIV has been enthusiastically received in both the United States and Peru. In Chiclayo, where he served as bishop from 2015 to 2023, he is known as the "Saint of the North" for his outreach to the poor and his work during natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. His commitment to social justice and environmental stewardship has left a profound mark on the Peruvian community. Before his election, Leo XIV held significant roles in the Vatican, including Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. His missionary and academic experience, along with his fluency in five languages, position him as a leader capable of building bridges between diverse cultures and communities. The Catholic community in Los Angeles, one of the largest in the United States, celebrated his election, highlighting his ability to understand and represent cultural diversity. Leo XIV has been described as a "bridge builder," committed to inclusion and dialogue, continuing the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis. His election also marks a significant moment in the history of the Church, as he is the first American pope and the second from the Americas. His pastoral approach and dedication to the marginalized reflect a Church moving toward greater openness and social engagement.
