NEW LENOX, Ill. — As the white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, a signal to the world that a new pope had been elected, John Prevost found himself glued to his television screen in Illinois. He quickly phoned his niece, and together, they were astounded to hear the announcement of his brother’s name.
“She began screaming because it was her uncle, and I was in utter disbelief,” Prevost shared from his home in New Lenox, Illinois. “It was a moment that felt unimaginable, far beyond what we ever anticipated.”
The feelings that followed were those of immense pride. His brother, Cardinal Robert Prevost, had been elected as the 267th pope of the Catholic Church. This historic event marked him as the first-ever pontiff from the United States.
“It’s an incredible honor and truly a once-in-a-lifetime event,” John reflected. “However, it comes with immense responsibility, and many will be watching his leadership closely.”
Cardinal Robert Prevost, at 69, a devoted member of the Augustinian religious order with extensive experience ministering in Peru, has adopted the papal name Leo XIV. Known for his compassion toward the poor and marginalized, John anticipates his brother to be a second Pope Francis.
“He remains balanced, not veering towards extremes on either the left or the right,” John mentioned.
Partway through the interview, John noticed he had missed several calls from his brother and decided to return the call. Pope Leo XIV preferred to stay out of the spotlight of the interview, and after exchanging congratulations and discussing travel plans, their conversation concluded as any brotherly exchange would.
As the youngest in a family of three boys, Robert Prevost grew up in a close-knit environment. John, only a year his senior, fondly recalled his brother excelling academically and enjoying games like tag, Monopoly, and Risk.
From an early age, it was clear Robert was destined for priesthood. Though becoming the pope was never explicitly foreseen, a neighbor had startlingly predicted this future when Robert was just six years old.
“She sensed it when he was a mere first grader,” John remembered. “It took time, but today, he stands as the first American pope.”
Upon finishing eighth grade, Robert left for seminary, creating a physical and emotional distance between the siblings. “There was a significant period where we didn’t grow up together,” John recounted. “Our bond was strengthened only during vacations.”
In recent times, a call between the brothers became a daily routine. They would discuss various topics ranging from politics and religion to solving Wordle puzzles together.
Looking ahead, John acknowledged uncertainty regarding how their regular conversations will change, given his brother’s new role. “Already, it feels unusual not having him to talk to as often,” he mused.