Leo XIV: Builder of Bridges

This biography traces a Chicago-born pope's rise from North American roots through Peru, Rome, and first overseas visits.

The first pope from North America, following the enormously popular Pope Francis, Leo XIV has caught the popular imagination both in his homeland and across the globe. In his new book, Father Michael Collins, who has written five papal biographies, examines the life story of the Chicago-born Robert Prevost.

Peru became the second home of Robert Prevost, who spent almost two decades there working as a curate, administrator and finally as bishop. Prevost spent twelve years at the helm of the Augustinian order, travelling to 50 countries during his tenure. These journeys brought him into contact with a variety of cultures spread across five continents. Pope Francis appointed Prevost a bishop in Peru, having known him since Francis was archbishop of Buenos Aires. Summoning Prevost to Rome in 2023, where he was placed in charge of the world's bishops, Pope Francis was giving a clear signal that he wanted the polyglot American to be considered as a possible successor.

This new biography covers not only Prevost's family history and his pre-papal life, but also the early months of his papacy, examining the new pope's approach to dealing with internal Vatican politics, his first visits abroad - to Turkey and Lebanon - and how he is handling thorny issues, such as the sexual abuse scandal and the closure of Sodalitium of Christian Life.