Pope Leo XIV: First American pontiff with a mathematics major

Cardinal Robert Prevost, who recently became pope, surprised the world with his education. The new leader of the Catholic Church, who took the name Pope Leo XIV, is the first American in this position.

His election as pope was confirmed on May 8th, and since then, the media and internet users have been trying to learn as much as possible about his life and views.

Pope Leo XIV was born in September 1955 in Chicago. Before becoming a cardinal, he spent many years as a missionary in Peru, where he served as a bishop from 2015 to 2023. His education began at the Augustinian Fathers Seminary, and he continued his studies at Villanova University in Pennsylvania.

Surprisingly, instead of theology or religious studies, Prevost chose mathematics as his major. According to ladbible.com, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics. Additionally, he also studied philosophy, which surely enriched his resume.

Internet users reacted with surprise and admiration to the news of the pope's mathematical background. One user joked: "As a mathematician, the pope not only believes that Jesus multiplied the loaves and fishes, but also understands how it was done." Another added: "Career paths for a mathematician: analyst, programmer, student... pope."

In the Chiclayo diocese in northwestern Peru, a new tourist trail is being created to commemorate Cardinal Robert Prevost, who served in this South American region for eight years.

The new tourist trail is set to have important religious and cultural value. According to Chiclayo’s mayor, Janet Cubas, the initiative is expected to begin within the next few days and will aim to attract visitors from both within the country and abroad.

She also reminded that Prevost served as the ordinary of the Chiclayo diocese from 2015 to 2023, further emphasizing his connection to the region.