The newly elected Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, has a meaningful history with Colombia—especially with the city of Barranquilla. Before his rise to the papacy, he visited the country multiple times and even lived in Barranquilla during a key stage of his pastoral career.
A Familiar Face in Colombia
In 2002 and 2007, while serving as the Superior General of the Order of St. Augustine, Prevost visited the Liceo de Cervantes in Barranquilla. The school, a respected Augustinian educational institution, welcomed him as part of his efforts to understand and support the community’s pastoral and academic mission.
Father Camilo Augusto Pineda Nao, the school’s current pastoral director, remembers those visits well.
“He toured the facilities, talked with teachers, students, staff, and religious leaders,” said Father Pineda.
“His goal was to understand the school’s condition and affirm the work being done here.”
His 2002 visit also coincided with the 400th anniversary of the Augustinian Order’s presence in Colombia. During that same trip, he visited San Nicolás de Tolentino Parish in Paseo Bolívar, a historic part of Barranquilla.
A Humble Leader
Though few photos remain from those visits, Father Pineda vividly recalls Prevost’s personality.
“He’s humble, approachable, and down to earth. God chooses the humble, and he reflects that,” he shared.
With his strong ties to Latin America and fluency in Spanish, many Colombians now feel a deep connection to Pope Leo XIV.
“I hope he visits again,” said Father Pineda. “His background and language truly connect us to his holiness.”
Barranquilla: A Key Chapter
In 2000, Prevost lived in Barranquilla while leading the Liceo Cervantes. His time there left a lasting impact, both on the school and the community. The institution, known for its humanistic and faith-based approach, continues to carry the legacy of that leadership.
From Missionary to Pontiff
Born in Chicago in 1955, Pope Leo XIV has devoted much of his life to Latin America. He arrived in Peru in 1985 as part of an Augustinian mission. He went on to lead the Augustinian seminary in Trujillo for a decade, later serving as Bishop of Chiclayo and Apostolic Administrator of Callao.
To deepen his role in Peru, he became a naturalized Peruvian citizen—following the agreements between the Vatican and the Peruvian state. From 2018 to 2023, he served as second vice president of the Peruvian Bishops’ Conference.
A Historic Election
The Vatican announced his election with the traditional Latin phrase Habemus Papam, spoken by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. At 6:07 p.m. local time, white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the successful vote—likely the fourth round on the second day of the conclave involving 133 cardinal electors.
Pride in Barranquilla
Those who knew him in Barranquilla remember his kindness, educational vision, and commitment to pastoral care. His election as Pope has filled the local community with joy and pride.
For many in Colombia, especially in Barranquilla, Pope Leo XIV is not just the new leader of the Catholic Church—he is a familiar friend with a legacy of faith, humility, and service.
