The recent election of Pope Leo XIV has sparked global attention—not just because he is the first American to hold the papacy, but also because his rise to the Vatican has resurfaced an ancient and controversial prophecy.
On May 8, 69-year-old Robert Francis Prevost, formerly a cardinal with roots in Peru and the United States, was officially confirmed as the new head of the Catholic Church. For many Catholics, his election represents a moment of renewal and hope.
But for some, it has stirred something far more mysterious: the centuries-old “Prophecy of the Popes.”
The Mysterious Prediction of Saint Malachy
The prophecy is attributed to St. Malachy, a 12th-century Irish mystic. According to the legend, he had a vision listing 112 future popes, ending with a figure known only as “Peter the Roman.” This final pope, the prophecy claims, would lead the Church during times of great tribulation.
With the death of Pope Francis on April 21, some have suggested that Pope Leo XIV might be the last name on that prophetic list—causing a surge of speculation online.
Does Pope Leo XIV Match the Prophecy?
Experts say: not really.
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