On May 8, 2025, the Catholic Church marked a historic milestone with the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th successor to the Throne of St. Peter. Taking the papal name Pope Leo XIV, he becomes the first American-born pontiff and the first from the Order of Saint Augustine (OSA). His election signifies a new chapter in the Church’s history, reflecting a blend of tradition and progressive leadership.

A Journey Rooted in Service and Scholarship

Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost’s early life was characterised by a deep commitment to faith and education. He entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (OSA) in 1977 and was ordained a priest in 1982. His academic pursuits led him to earn advanced degrees in canon law from the Pontifical College of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. These formative years laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service, scholarship, and spiritual leadership.

Missionary Work and Leadership

Pope Leo XIV’s missionary zeal took him to Peru, where he served extensively, eventually becoming the bishop of Chiclayo. His dual citizenship in the United States and Peru underscores his deep ties to both nations and his commitment to cross-cultural engagement. In Peru, he was known for his pastoral care, advocacy for the marginalised, and efforts to address social injustices. His leadership in the region exemplified a hands-on approach to ministry, emphasising compassion and inclusivity. As the Superior of the Order of Saint Augustine, Cardinal Robert Prevost visited the Order of Saint Augustine, Province of Nigeria, during one of his missionary tours.

Vatican Roles and Global Influence

In April 2023, he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a significant role within the Vatican responsible for overseeing the selection of bishops worldwide. His tenure in this position was marked by a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the promotion of leaders who embody the Church’s mission in diverse cultural contexts. His global perspective and administrative acumen positioned him as a bridge between various factions within the Church, fostering unity and dialogue.

The Significance of the Name Leo XIV

By choosing the name Leo XIV, the new pope aligns himself with the legacy of Pope Leo XIII, known for his encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed the rights and conditions of workers. This choice signals a continued emphasis on social justice, the dignity of labour, and the Church’s role in addressing contemporary societal challenges. It reflects a commitment to uphold the Church’s teachings while engaging constructively with modern issues.

A Vision for the Church

In his inaugural address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV greeted the faithful with the words, “Peace be with all of you!” He emphasised themes of unity, compassion, and dialogue, calling for a Church that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of its diverse global congregation. His fluency in multiple languages, including Spanish, allowed him to connect personally with various communities, highlighting his inclusive approach to leadership.

Echoing the LBS Mission: Leadership, Ethics, and Stewardship

At Lagos Business School, we find deep resonance between Pope Leo XIV’s values and the mission that guides our institution. His lifelong dedication to service, integrity, and ethical leadership mirrors LBS’s commitment to developing leaders who will transform society through responsible and principled action.

As an institution grounded in a strong Christian identity, we uphold the values of dignity, stewardship, and ethical responsibility. These ideals and guiding principles shape our academic, administrative, and leadership culture. We encourage our students, staff, and faculty to pursue excellence in results and purpose, building a more humane, just, and inclusive society.

We celebrate this historic moment with the global Catholic and Christian communities. Pope Leo XIV’s election is a powerful reminder that leadership transforms institutions and generations when rooted in humility and vision.

The Lagos Business School community extends its heartfelt congratulations to Pope Leo XIV. May his papacy be marked by wisdom, unity, and peace, values we champion and share.

 

Sources

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Vatican News

Opusdei.org

The Washington Post

BBC News

ABC News