Bishop Gerald Kicanas of the Diocese of Tucson grew up and worked in Chicago — in the same area that Pope Leo XIV grew up and worked as well. Kicanas said he and Robert Francis Prevost — now Pope Leo XIV — have known each other for over 25 years.
“When I heard it was Roberto, I just knew it was Bob Prevost, which was just a joy,” Kicanas said. “I’ve known him for quite along time.”
So when Kicanas saw Prevost make his appearance on the balcony as Pope Leo XIV, he sent him a message of prayer and congratulations…