The Vatican Dicastery for Communication has released a new documentary titled “Leo from Chicago,” which delves into the early life and priestly journey of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, and the deep family and cultural roots that shaped his vocation.
According to Vatican News, the production includes “interviews, footage, and images that trace the history and explore the roots of Robert Francis Prevost in his native United States.” The film highlights the Pope’s formative years growing up in Chicago and features “in-depth interviews with Louis and John Prevost,” who offer a rare glimpse into the family life of the future pontiff.
The documentary is the result of a collaboration among Vatican journalists Deborah Castellano Lubov, Salvatore Cernuzio, and Felipe Herrera-Espaliat, who sought to show the human and spiritual foundations of the man now leading the Catholic Church.
“Leo from Chicago” paints a portrait of Pope Leo XIV not just as a global religious leader, but as a son of America—formed by the faith, service, and multicultural character of his Chicago upbringing. Through personal testimonies and historical reflections, the film reminds viewers that every vocation begins in a particular home and community, where love for God first takes root.
According to Vatican News, the Dicastery’s aim with this film is to “trace the history” and share the story of how those humble beginnings shaped Pope Leo XIV’s compassion, leadership, and vision for a Church rooted in dialogue and humanity.
The documentary invites Catholics around the world to see the Holy Father through the lens of his origins—a shepherd from Chicago now guiding the universal Church.
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