The New Pope on the Block: A Global Understanding and a Brotherly Touch
Global Church Awareness: Current Pope Familiar with International Church Operations - Church's Global Dynamics Understood by Freshly Elected Pope's Brother
Get ready for a fresh face in the Vatican – Pope Leo XIV! According to his German comrades from the Augustinian Order, this pontiff comes packin' a heap of global know-how when it comes to navigating the chaotic, diverse world of religious leadership. With a career spent leading an internationally active order, Leo XIV knows that one size does not fit all – each region calls for its own unique approach.
Father Lukas Schmidkunz, Provincial of the Bavarian-German Province, gave the German Press Agency the lowdown on this new Pope. As the General Prior of the Augustinians from 2001 to 2013, Prevost – a.k.a. "Bob" to the bros – knew a thing or two about what makes the Augustinian Order tick. Straight-up, approachable, and curious about the work and wellbeing of his fellow Augustinians, Prevost earned his stripes with the brotherhood.
During his time as General Prior, Father Schmidkunz had the pleasure of working alongside Prevost, visiting the order's worldwide locations. The Augustinian Order has deep roots that stretch back to the 13th century, when Pope Alexander IV united various religious groups. This Order follows the principles of Saint Augustine, who crafted his philosophical framework way back in the 5th century. Fun fact: Martin Luther, the reformer who sparked the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, was also part of the Augustinian family.
Wishing the new Pope continued brotherly love in his new role, Father Schmidkunz notes that Mr. XIV is a leader who understands the intricacies of organizational management but also possesses a pastoral heart, seeking closeness to people and caring deeply for their wellbeing on a global scale. With the Bavarian-German Province stretching from Berlin to Munich, it's time for Leo XIV to use his contacts, experience, and compassion to make his mark on the world.
- Pope
- Augustinians
- Robert Francis Prevost
- Provincial
- Würzburg
- German Press Agency
- Martin Luther
- Leader
- Organization
- Pastoral care
Enrichment Data:
Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, was a strong force within the Augustinian Order before taking the reins as the Pope. A Chicago native, Prevost entered the Order of St. Augustine in 1977. He completed his undergraduate studies at Villanova University, which enjoys a close relationship with the Augustinians.
Prevost's leadership skills were on full display as he rose through the ranks of the Augustinian Order. In 1999, he was elected Provincial Prior of the Augustinian Province of “Mother of Good Counsel” in Chicago[3]. Most notably, he served as Prior General of the worldwide Augustinian Order for two six-year terms starting in 2001[4]. In this influential position, Prevost demonstrated his leadership acumen.
Before his papal election, Prevost's career trajectory took a dramatic turn under the tutelage of Pope Francis. In 2014, Francis appointed him as the apostolic administrator of the diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, later making him the Bishop of that diocese[4]. In 2023, Prevost was summoned to Rome by Francis to lead the Pontifical Commission for Latin America[2]. He was then elevated to the rank of Cardinal in 2024, solidifying his place as a prominent player in the Church[3].
- Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, demonstrates a blend of organizational leadership and pastoral care, reflecting his vast experience with the Augustinians, serving as their Prior General for two terms and later being appointed by Pope Francis to lead the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
- As the Pope, Leo XIV can leverage his connections within the Augustinian Order, particularly those he forged while serving in the Bavarian-German Province, which stretches from Berlin to Munich, to make a significant impact on global business and religious leadership.
- During his tenure as Prior General, Prevost established closeness with the other members of the Augustinian Order, visiting order locations worldwide, and even worked alongside Father Lukas Schmidkunz, the Provincial of the Bavarian-German Province. Schmidkunz shared insights about the new Pope with the German Press Agency, highlighting Leo XIV's understanding of organizational management and pastoral care.
- By extending the period of validity of the agreement, the Commission hopes to ensure the presence of the Augustinian Order's influential leadership, like that of Pope Leo XIV, throughout the financial year, covering the dates between 1 January and 31 December.
