John Prevost, residing in New Lenox, Illinois, had an inkling of the historical potential for his brother, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, when he heard a local priest mention Las Vegas odds of 18 to 1 for his papal election. Prevost, however, was met with disbelief from his brother, who dismissed the notion as unlikely during a phone conversation. However, the surprising became reality when Cardinal Prevost was elected Pope Leo XIV, making him the first American pontiff.
In an insightful interview late Thursday, John reflected on the profound change this news brought to their community and the wider implications of his brother’s election. “Rob,” as he affectionately calls Leo, embodies a strong desire to uplift those who are often overlooked in society. Prevost highlighted his brother’s commitment to aiding the downtrodden and embracing the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
John Prevost’s admiration for his brother’s values paves the way for hopeful expectations about Pope Leo XIV’s leadership, particularly in areas related to social justice and support for marginalized communities. For the residents of New Lenox, where Leo's story began, this moment marks not just historical significance but also a source of inspiration and pride within the American Catholic landscape.
