NEW LENOX, Ill. — A remarkable moment unfolded recently when John Prevost received a life-changing phone call. Just hours earlier, Prevost had watched in amazement as his younger brother, now Pope Leo XIV, stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the world. News reporters quickly crowded his suburban Chicago home, eager to learn more about the new pontiff.
After a long journey from Indianapolis, I arrived at Prevost’s home, met by a buzz of media activity outside. Once inside, we started talking, but soon, a ringing sound echoed from the basement. Prevost dashed downstairs, and I followed, camera in hand.
“That could be the pope,” he said with a mix of excitement and disbelief. Presto! He had missed several calls from his brother. Dialing back, the new pope answered.
I captured the moment on video as the Pope’s familiar voice came through, asking John why he hadn’t been answering. Shaking with excitement, John replied, “First, you should know you’re on the air right now. This is the first time I’m hearing this thing ring.”
Their short conversation revealed a candid exchange between two brothers. They discussed the latest news and plans for John to visit Rome soon, all while chatting like any siblings would.
As my interview with John continued, we talked more about their family and childhood in Chicago, including the pope’s favorite meal: a good steak. John mentioned they FaceTime almost daily and enjoy playing games like Wordle together. The last time they spoke before the conclave was just a few days earlier.
This personal exchange provided a glimpse into the life of a man who now holds great responsibility. It reminded me that beneath the grandeur of the papacy lies a simple bond between two brothers, reminding all of us of the importance of family and connection, no matter how lofty one’s title may be.
