Pope Leo XIV made history as America’s first Catholic leader, but his family’s roots run deep in the Midwest. His brother Louis Prevost, a Florida resident, shared heartfelt reactions to the news during a Newsmax interview. The siblings grew up in Chicago’s Dolton neighborhood, where their family valued faith and hard work. Louis described his younger brother as a “man of the people” who always knew he wanted to be a priest.
When Louis watched the Fox News report of his brother’s election on Newsmax, he felt “shock and awe.” The historic moment hit hard—his younger brother, once playing pretend priest with Necco wafers on an ironing board altar, now led the global Church. The news broke while the Prevost family lived ordinary lives, far from Rome’s grandeur.
Louis said he talked to Robert just days before the conclave. “Will you accept if chosen?” he asked. “I’ll do God’s will,” his brother replied humbly. The brothers kept faith central despite the fame. Now, as Pope Leo XIV settles into the Vatican, Louis wonders if they’ll meet again. “Getting access to the pope isn’t easy—even for family,” he admitted.
Their childhood in Illinois shaped their values. John, the eldest brother, recalled Robert distributing pretend communion as kids. The White Sox-loving Pope remained “down-to-earth” even as a cardinal, blending humility with leadership. The Prevost boys learned early that serving others comes first—a lesson their parents Louis and Mildred instilled.
Louis expressed pride in his brother’s readiness for the role. “He’ll perform exceptionally well because he’s a man of the people,” he said. Pope Leo XIV’s career included leading missions and advising Pope Francis. His appointment to the Dicastery for Evangelization in 2023 highlighted his focus on spreading the Gospel.
The family’s story reflects timeless American virtues. A neighbor once predicted Robert would be pope—a prophecy fulfilled decades later. The Prevosts’ journey from a South Chicago home to the Vatican shows how faith and perseverance overcome obstacles. Louis called it a “blessing,” though bittersweet given their new distance.
Conservatives across America celebrated the election as a victory for traditional values. Pope Leo XIV’s pro-life stance and emphasis on evangelization align with Catholic teachings often sidelined in modern politics. His childhood games as a pretend priest contrast sharply with elites who reject religious roots.
While papal duties keep him in Rome, Pope Leo XIV’s Midwest humility remains. Louis hopes his brother’s story inspires Americans to hold fast to faith amid crisis. “He’s still the same guy,” John said—a reminder that greatness starts in ordinary homes.
