In brief
Pope Leo XIV's journey from Augustinian roots to the papacy highlights the community's values of charity, unity, and dialogue.
The cellphone of Rev. Alejandro Moral Antón, the leader of the Order of St. Augustine, buzzed incessantly as he navigated calls from around the globe, each seeking insight into the papacy’s newest member, formed by the doctrines of his order. "You know what's happening?" he casually remarked during a conversation with his dentist. “The new pope is an Augustinian!”With a mere 3,000 members, the Order of St. Augustine has suddenly attained international attention, as the world focuses on its very own Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost. This American, who acquired Peruvian citizenship, was formed into a priest under Augustinian tutelage beginning at age 14 before being ordained in 1982. His journey saw him engage deeply in Peruvian missionary work and then take on the role of leader for the order from Rome for a dozen years. Such experiences led him to form substantial connections, enhancing his visibility during the recent conclave that resulted in his election.Now the first pope from the Augustinian community, Leo is anticipated to prioritize missionary outreach and valuing input from diverse sources when making decisions—pillars of Augustinian philosophy. As Pierantonio Piatti, a historian of the Augustinians at the Vatican, notes, Leo’s leadership will reflect a commitment to communion and dialogue. This approach aligns seamlessly with the concept termed “synodality,” which aims to promote collaboration between bishops and lay members of the Church in significant decision-making processes, thereby fostering inclusiveness and unity within the faith community.
