BREAKING NEWS: FROM THE AMERICAS: Meet Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, OSA

BREAKING NEWS: FROM THE AMERICAS: Meet Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, OSA

BY: Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ

Let me share with you the story of one of the newer faces in the College of Cardinals who is gradually becoming a central figure in the life of the universal Church: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a member of the Order of St. Augustine (OSA).

ALSO RECOMMENDED: SIMILAR NEWS ABOUT THE NEW POPE

Born in Chicago, USA, on September 14, 1955, Cardinal Prevost began his religious journey as an Augustinian friar and was ordained a priest in 1982. His path took him beyond the United States: he served extensively as a missionary in Peru, where he spent many years ministering to the faithful with dedication, simplicity, and great pastoral wisdom. His fluency in Spanish and close familiarity with Latin American realities have greatly shaped his ecclesial vision.

In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo in northern Peru, where he became well-respected for his pastoral leadership and closeness to the people. Just a few years later, in April 2023, he was called to Rome and appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a position of immense responsibility. This dicastery plays a central role in the selection of bishops across the world. As prefect, Cardinal Prevost oversees the discernment process for new bishops and ensures that the men chosen to shepherd dioceses are sound in doctrine, strong in character, and pastoral in spirit.

In September 2023, Pope Francis elevated him to the rank of Cardinal, becoming one of the Holy Father’s closest collaborators in the governance of the Church.

Known for his theological clarity, calm demeanor, and grounded spirituality, Cardinal Prevost also has a profound respect for tradition while remaining sensitive to the pastoral needs of the present day. He is not loud in the media, but his influence is quietly decisive, especially given the crucial role he now holds.

I have found his missionary background, rootedness in Scripture and community life, as well as his ability to work across cultures, quite admirable. His good works are also well spoken of here in Latin America. His life and service remind us that the Church’s leadership is enriched by those who have walked closely with the people, especially in places where the faith is lived with simplicity and depth.

Let us keep him in our prayers, along with all the cardinals tasked with discernment and service at this critical time in the Church’s history.

Next in focus: Cardinal Besungu. Don’t miss it.

Shalom!

NB: This presentation is purely for educational purposes only as I’d done for other Cardinals. It does not suggest who will or should become the next pope. That decision lies entirely in the providence of God and the working of the Holy Spirit. Our task is to know the Church better and pray faithfully.

FOR A SIMILAR NEWS, CLICK HERE >>>>>

Dear friends in Christ, We have been sustained by your Charity for the past 11years. Here we are saddled with annual bills. Please, be kind to us with your donation. Click on the “Donate” button to get started. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!