On May 8, Robert Prevost became the first American pope, taking the name Leo XIV. While the news shocked many, his brother John revealed that Robert may have sensed it coming.

In an interview, John Prevost, a retired Catholic school principal from New Lenox, Illinois, said he learned about the election like everyone else—through the media—while on the phone with his niece. “It was a shocking moment… the phone, iPad, and cellphone just went nuts,” he said.

John recalled that Robert, whom they’ve called “Rob” since childhood, always wanted to be a priest. “A neighbor once said he’d be pope someday,” he added.

Remarkably, the day before the conclave, Robert hinted at his possible election during a call with John, even discussing papal names. John advised against “Leo,” thinking it would be Leo XIII again, but Robert later confirmed it would be Leo XIV.
John hasn’t contacted his brother since the election, knowing how busy he must be. “I haven’t had time to cry yet,” he said. “I’m still in shock.”