Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, to Louis Marius Prevost and Mildred Martínez. His father, a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and a school administrator, was of French and Italian descent. His mother, a librarian active in parish life, was of Spanish heritage. He grew up on Chicago's South Side with his two brothers, Louis Martín and John Joseph.

From an early age, Prevost was deeply immersed in Catholic life, serving as an altar boy at St. Mary of the Assumption Church. He completed his secondary education at the minor seminary of the Order of St. Augustine in 1973. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from Villanova University in 1977. He joined the Augustinian order in 1977, taking his first vows in 1978 and his solemn vows in 1981. He obtained a Master of Divinity degree from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in 1982. 

Known for his humility and dedication to service, Pope Leo XIV has spent much of his life in missionary work, particularly in Peru, where he served in various roles including seminary teacher and bishop. He is fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese, and can read Latin and German. A fan of the Chicago Cubs, he is recognized for his quiet demeanor and commitment to the poor and migrants. 

His lifestyle reflects his Augustinian roots, emphasizing simplicity, community, and service. As Pope, he continues to focus on building bridges and fostering a unified, compassionate Church.