Jet lag hasn’t slowed down John Prevost, brother of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. After a whirlwind trip to the Vatican, he’s back home in the US, juggling the mundane with the monumental. His first priorities? Mowing the lawn, enjoying a well-deserved beer, and processing the utterly life-altering events of the past few days.
Prevost described the papal election as a stunningly swift process, leaving him reeling. He emphasized that the impact of his brother’s ascension extends far beyond the Catholic Church, touching the lives of countless individuals worldwide. His visit to Rome included attending several events alongside the new Pope, witnessing firsthand the overwhelming enthusiasm of the crowds. He recounted scenes of jubilant throngs chanting “Papa! Papa! Papa!”, their faces alight with hope as they interacted with the newly elected pontiff.
There’s much speculation about Pope Leo XIV’s future policies and whether he will deviate from his predecessor’s path. However, Prevost shared that his brother’s primary focus is on unity, recognizing the global yearning for hope and a sense of togetherness. He believes his brother will follow in the footsteps of Pope Francis, continuing the legacy of compassion and global outreach.
Prevost shared heartwarming photos of his family, reflecting on his brother’s journey and expressing immense pride. He admitted that the reality of his brother’s new role is still sinking in, a mix of pride, disbelief, and a profound sense of change. The sheer volume of mail addressed to the new Pope, awaiting him at home, served as a stark reminder of this seismic shift.
Even amidst the global attention, Prevost found humor in the Chicago White Sox’s reaction to the news of his brother’s fandom, adding a touch of local color to the international story. He also settled a quintessential Chicago debate: thin-crust pizza is his preferred choice, mirroring his brother’s taste.
Prevost concluded his reflections with a heartfelt plea to the public, urging continued prayers for his brother as he prepares for his formal inauguration on Sunday. He expressed optimism about the positive impact Pope Leo XIV will have on the Church, the United States, and the world, encouraging everyone to continue watching and praying for his success.
