Pope Leo XIV's Alma Mater Has Message for Everyone
Pope Leo XIV was elected on Thursday, becoming the 267th leader of the Catholic church. His election is historic, as he becomes the first American pope in the church's history.
Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, attended Villanova University in Philadelphia. The school is one of the top Catholic universities in all of America, and it released a statement after he was chosen for the papacy.
'As an Augustinian Catholic institution, we celebrate this significant day for our University community and the global Church," said University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue.
"Villanova, built on the teachings of St. Augustine, has always been grounded in advancing a deeper understanding of the fundamental relationship between faith and reason—between spirituality and wisdom.
With today's election of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, I cannot help but reflect on what his Augustinian papacy will mean to our University community and our world. Known for his humility, gentle spirit, prudence and warmth, Pope Leo XIV's leadership offers an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to our educational mission.'
Pope Leo XIV completed his undergraduate studies at Villanova, earning a bachelor's degree in mathematics in 1977. That same year, he joined the Order of St. Augustine.
In 1982, he received a Master's of Divinity from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and was ordained in the same year. He spent over 20 years in Peru as a bishop, among other roles, and became a naturalized citizen of the nation during his time there.
'Peace be with you all. Dear brothers and sisters, this is the first greeting of the Risen Christ, the good shepherd who gave his life for the flock of God," the new pope said as he emerged to a balcony at the Vatican, addressing thousands in the square below.
"I too would like this greeting of peace to enter your hearts to reach your families to all people everywhere to all the earth: peace be with you.'
As the world prepares for the first American pope, we'll see what the future has in store for the Catholic church and for Pope Leo XIV in his papacy.
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