There was a celebratory mood at St Augustine’s College in Sydney’s Northern Beaches on Friday morning, as the news spread that one of their own had been named the next leader of the Catholic Church.
“It is the greatest honour that we could receive,” college chaplain Father Senan Ward of the appointment said.
Not only is Leo XIV the first pope from the order of Saint Augustine, according to Vatican News, but he was a regular visitor to Australia during his time as leader of the order from 2001 to 2013, with many local Augustinian leaders considering him a personal friend.
Pope Leo XIV, then prior general of the Order of Saint Augustine, speaking at St Augustine’s College Brookvale in 2009.Credit: St Augustine’s College
While Pope Francis never made it to Australia, before or during his papacy, Robert Prevost’s position saw him travel to the about 50 countries where the order has a presence. That includes at least four known visits to Australia, where he developed a great love of Tim Tams, and a hatred of Vegemite.
Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher said it is “very likely” the newly elected Pope will visit Australia, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese already extending an invitation to the International Eucharistic Congress in Sydney in 2028.
St Augustine’s College welcomed the future pope to its Brookvale campus twice, in 2008 and 2009.
Religious Education teacher Margaret McElhone recalled the visits, remarking that Prevost’s “humility and willingness to spend authentic time in community was appreciated by all who met him”.
(Now) Pope Leo XIV celebrating mass at Sydney’s Collaroy Beach in 2008.Credit: St Augustine’s College
Prevost’s first visit in 2008 coincided with Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Australia for World Youth Day, during which he gave a scenic Mass at Sydney’s Collaroy Beach. He returned a year later, speaking at a college assembly and presenting sports awards.
