Born on September 14, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois, Prévost has emerged as a prominent figure in the Catholic Church. His career, marked by a combination of pastoral service and administrative leadership, has positioned him as one of the main candidates to happen to Pope Francis. Prévost, 69, is known for his affable character and moderate approach, qualities that have been fundamental in his rise within the ecclesiastical hierarchy.
He entered the novitiate of the order of San Agustín in 1977 And he professed his solemn votes in 1981. His academic training is impressive: he has a degree in mathematical sciences from the University of Villanova, a master’s degree in Divinity of the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, and a degree and doctorate in Canon Law of the Pontifical University of Santo Tomás de Aquino in Rome. This solid educational base has been crucial in its ability to assume leadership roles within the Church.
mission in Peru and leadership in the order of San Agustín
A 1985, preview was sent to Peruwhere a significant stage of his life began as a missionary. His first destination was the mission of Chulucanas, in Piura, where he served as a parochial vicar of the cathedral and chancellor of the territorial prelature. During his time in Peru, Prévost not only dedicated himself to evangelization, but also played a crucial role in the formation of new priests and in the administration of the diocese.
After a brief return to the United States, where worked as a vocational director And of missions for the Augustinian province of Chicago, Prévost returned to Peru in 1988. During the next decade, he directed the Augustinian Seminary in Trujillo and taught Canon Law at the Diocesan Seminary. His deep knowledge of the region and his domain of Spanish, in addition to other languages, allowed him to establish a significant connection with the local community.
-In 1999, Prévost was elected prior provincial of his province in Chicago and, two years later, a prior to the order of San Agustín worldwide, a position he held until 2013. This international leadership provided him with a global perspective of the Church and allowed him to establish relations with ecclesiastical leaders around the world.
Ascent in the Roman Curia
On December 12, 2014, Prévost was appointed bishop holding of Sufar and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of ChiclayoPeru, by Pope Francis. His episcopal ordination marked a turning point in his career, consolidating his position as a key leader within the Church. In 2015, he became a bishop of Chiclayo, where he continued his pastoral and administrative work until 2023.
In January 2023, Prévost was appointed prefect of Dicastery for Bishops, one of the most influential positions within the Roman curia. This dicastery is responsible for advising the Pope in the selection of new bishops, a role that has allowed Prévost to significantly influence the direction of the Church globally. His appointment as a cardinal in September 2023 was a recognition of his dedication and service.
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