Pope Leo XIV, sibling of Robert Pre-Prost, stated that the newly elected clergy aim to continue the legacy of the late Pope Francis, focusing on those who often go unheard.
John Pribble, one of Robert’s brothers, noted that Francis and Leo represent “two kinds” of leaders. He emphasized that his brothers are in search of someone who advocates for the disenfranchised, particularly the poor and voiceless.
When asked about the differences between Pope Francis and Pope Leo, John admitted, “I’m not sure you can identify a significant difference.”
“Both were active in South America, in Peru and Argentina, so I think they share similar experiences working with missions and oppressed communities,” he shared with ABC News on Wednesday. “That background influences both of them.”
Pope Leo, hailing from Chicago, Illinois, made history on Thursday by becoming the first American-born pope, marking a shift in longstanding Catholic traditions.
Reflecting on Pope Leo’s childhood ambitions, John mentioned that their youngest brother had always aspired to be a priest, even pretending to lead services as a child with an ironing board serving as his altar. He recalled that a neighbor once predicted Robert would be the first American pope when he was a freshman.
Another sibling, Louis Prevast, described the newly elected Pope as “down to earth” and “sharp-minded.”
“We always teased him, saying he would be the Pope one day,” Louis remarked to ABC News. “My neighbor had a similar prediction. I’ll still be here in 60 years!”
Despite Robert’s busy schedule, the brothers remain closely connected. Before entering the secret conclave, John expressed his belief that Robert would become Pope, but Robert dismissed the notion swiftly.
“He either didn’t believe it or just didn’t want to entertain the idea,” John Presto said.
