A Family's Joy: The Surprising Ascendancy of Pope Leo XIV

In a moment of unexpected jubilation, John Joseph Prevost, brother of the newly appointed Pope Leo XIV, shared the excitement of his brother's election during the Vatican conclave. Together with his niece in their New Lenox, Illinois home, they were overwhelmed with joy as they witnessed Robert Prevost being named the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church on the fourth ballot.

"She started screaming because it was her uncle, and I couldn't believe it was happening, as it was so far from what we thought would occur," John said in an interview with the Associated Press. He expressed immense pride in his brother, a Chicago-born cardinal who dedicated much of his life to missionary work in Peru.

John described his brother as deeply compassionate, particularly towards the poor and marginalized, and expressed hope that he would be a “second Pope Francis.” He emphasized that Robert would not lean excessively left or right, but instead find a balance in his leadership.

As the youngest of three siblings, John fondly recalled their childhood, noting Robert's early academic prowess and a neighbor's prophetic words about his future as pope. Despite their different paths, the brothers now maintain a close relationship, regularly speaking on the phone about various topics, including politics and religion. However, John is uncertain how this dynamic will change with Robert's new responsibilities as pope.

Source: www.clarin.com