Pope Leo played Wordle, watched Conclave' before his historic election: Brother

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 12:00 am

Pope Leo XIV: A "Regular Guy" Before Becoming the First American Pope

In a heartwarming glimpse into the life of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, his brother, John Prevost, has revealed the surprisingly ordinary activities the pontiff engaged in before entering the historic conclave. The Chicago native, formerly known as Robert Prevost, spent his final hours before the election playing **Wordle** and **Words with Friends**, and even watching the movie "**Conclave**," a film about the process he was about to experience.

Prevost shared these details with NBC Chicago, painting a picture of a man grounded in everyday life. He described a phone call with his brother just hours before the conclave, where they engaged in their regular routine of word games. "It's something to keep his mind off of life in the real world," Prevost explained. He even asked the future Pope if he'd seen "Conclave," jokingly suggesting it might offer some guidance on how to behave. The Pope had, in fact, just finished watching it.

The news of Pope Leo XIV's election as the first American Pope came as a shock, even to the man himself. Prevost recounted his brother's disbelief, reflecting the general sentiment that an American pope was unlikely. The brothers, who grew up in the Chicago suburb of Dolton, maintain a close relationship, with Prevost often trying to lighten the mood with a laugh.

Prevost also shared insights into their family background and the Pope's early calling to the priesthood, which he felt from a young age. The Pope's journey began after eighth grade, leading him to the Augustinian Seminary and eventually to his current role. Prevost, a long-time educator, is now preparing to travel to Rome with his family, hoping to see their newly elected relative. He offered his brother one simple piece of advice: "Be yourself, because then he's got it made." This story humanizes the Pope, reminding us that even the highest religious figures are, at their core, just like us.

Keywords: Pope Leo XIV, American Pope, Wordle, Conclave, Words with Friends, Robert Prevost, John Prevost, Chicago, Dolton, Conclave movie, first American pope, Pope election, Catholic Church, Vatican, news, religion

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