Who was Leo, the saint after whom the new Pope Robert Francis Prevost inspired his name?

Saint Leo the Great, also known by his parishioners as the Doctor of the Catholic Church and protector of the defenseless, is one of the most important pontiffs in history , because he lasted 21 years on the throne and achieved several records during his administration.

One of his most important contributions to the ecclesiastical community was the way he consolidated the spiritual authority of St. Peter's Basilica in the face of worldly power brokers who sought to divide Rome through deception and heresy toward believers.

It is known that the patron saint of musicians and singers was born in Tuscany, Italy, where he received the best education, which allowed him to become the secretary of two renowned popes, Saint Celestine and Sixtus III.

Years later, he was sent as ambassador to France with the mission of preventing a conflict between the territory's inhabitants, as part of a dispute between two imperial authorities. However, his work didn't end there, as during his stay in the European country, he was elected Supreme Pontiff.

Appointed in the year 440 as successor to Sixtus III, Leo dedicated his entire administration to the truth and the vocation of holiness, for which he was recognized among the Catholic community for his great oratory capacity to preach at all festivals , reaching to make 96 sermons and 144 letters.

Throughout his papacy he focused on strengthening the unity and integrity of the Church , unleashing constant confrontations with the heresies of external enemies who sought to destroy the city of Rome.

Accordingly, many parishioners consider him one of the wisest and most sensible leaders, thus generating an absolute devotion for the work he carried out for 21 years at the Holy See , which continues to be remembered in the month of November.

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, the 133 cardinals who participated in the conclave to elect the successor to the late Pope Francis expressed their will on the ballots, deeming Robert Francis Prevost the most suitable member to assume the office.

After the news was announced by the white smoke that rose over the Sistine Chapel, the new pontiff chose the name Leo XIV and went to the Hall of Tears to don the traditional robes of the highest authority in the Church.

However, this identity was not selected at random by the religious, as it is a custom steeped in history , which is why it turns out to be the fourth most popular designation of the Holy See and is related to decisive figures for the Catholic community.

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