Pope Leo XIV’s Brother John Prevost Speaks About Their Relationship
In a rare and heartfelt interview, John Prevost, the younger brother of Pope Leo XIV, has opened up about his relationship with the Holy Father, offering the world an intimate glimpse into the private life of the newly elected pontiff.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Emmanuel Prevost, was elected to the papacy following a surprising and short conclave. Since then, much attention has been focused on his theological views, reformist tone, and intellectual background. But little has been known about his family—until now.
Speaking to Italian Catholic media, John Prevost shared stories from their childhood, their spiritual journey, and how the man now leading the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics remains, in many ways, the same humble brother he always knew.
“To the world, he is Pope Leo XIV. To me, he’s just Emmanuel—my big brother,” John said with a smile. “Even now, I have to stop myself from calling him by his first name when we speak.”
John, who lives a quiet life in southern France as a retired teacher, described their upbringing as modest but rich in faith and learning. Raised in a devout Catholic household, the brothers were very close, often spending time reading Scripture, playing chess, and discussing philosophy—even as teenagers.
“He was always the thinker, even when we were kids,” John recalled. “But he wasn’t distant or proud. He always listened. He cared about people, even strangers. That’s something that never changed.”
According to John, Emmanuel’s call to the priesthood came early, but his journey was marked by humility and service. “He could’ve gone into academia, politics—even law,” John said. “But he felt drawn to something higher. He saw the Church not as a place of power, but as a place of healing.”
Their relationship remained close even as Emmanuel climbed the ranks of the Church. John says the two would exchange letters and speak on the phone when possible, often talking about faith, family, and the state of the world.
“When he became a cardinal, I thought, ‘Well, now he’s unreachable,’” John joked. “But he called me the next day to ask how our mother’s garden was doing. That’s just who he is.”
Now that his brother is the Pope, John says their contact has become less frequent, but no less meaningful.
“I don’t expect daily calls anymore,” he said with a laugh. “But when we do speak, he always asks about the family. He wants to know how our nieces and nephews are doing. He’s still very much grounded.”
When asked how it feels to have a brother who is now the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, John became quiet.
“I’m proud, of course,” he said. “But more than that, I’m praying for him. The burden is enormous. He carries the hopes of millions. But I know his heart. And I believe he will serve not with pride, but with love.”
John’s words offer a rare and humanizing portrait of Pope Leo XIV—not just as a spiritual leader, but as a brother, a son, and a man whose family still sees him through the lens of love, not titles.