Brother of New Pope Leo XIV Shares Shock and Pride

The Moment of Announcement

• 💡 John Prevost, brother of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, recounts hearing the news while reading in his living room.
• 🎯 A message about "white smoke" prompted him to watch the TV, leading to the shocking announcement.
• 😲 Upon hearing his brother's name called, Prevost experienced a mix of shock, disbelief, and immense pride.

His Brother's Path to the Papacy

• 🌟 Prevost believes his brother's desire to be a missionary and his deep empathy for the disenfranchised and poor will shape his papacy.
• 🤝 He anticipates Pope Leo XIV will follow in the footsteps of Pope Francis, focusing on the underprivileged.
• 🚀 Being young and active, the new Pope is expected to be mobile and outspoken, potentially taking on new initiatives.

Childhood and Early Calling

• ✝️ The future Pope showed an early calling, playing priest with serious dedication from a young age, using an ironing board as an altar.
• 🔮 Notably, women in his neighborhood predicted he would be the first American pope even when he was in first grade.
• 🎓 He entered the Augustinian seminary after 8th grade, dedicating his life to the church early on.

Significance of an American Pope

• 🇺🇸 Prevost acknowledges the great responsibility that comes with being the first American Pope, anticipating intense scrutiny.
• 🤔 He reflects that the US's global power might have previously seemed to preclude an American pope, but believes the Holy Spirit guided this choice.
• 🧠 The new Pope is described as having the patience of a saint, capable of careful thought before speaking, unlike his more immediate brother.

Handling Controversial Issues

• 🗣️ Pope Leo XIV is expected to weigh in on controversial topics like immigration and war, likely advocating for treating all people with dignity.
• 📜 Regarding gay marriage, Prevost believes his brother will adhere to the church's traditional stance.

Childhood Memories

• ⚾ Growing up in Dalton, they were regular kids who enjoyed playing baseball, swimming, and taking the train downtown.
• ⚽ The future Pope was adaptable, often going along with the majority in games and activities.
• 🚗 In high school, his favorite recreation was driving, a passion he is expected to continue, albeit in different circumstances.