Robert Prevost - Leo XIV

Robert Prevost, the first American Pope, elected May 8, 2025 at 6 p.m., Vatican City. He took the name Leo XIV.

Leo XIV will likely put finances front and center - maybe tackling the Vatican bank (which only instated anti-money laundering laws in 2011). He will have his work cut out for him.

But Jupiter in detriment on the ninth cusp suggests he will issue base, troublesome, or unorthodox doctrine. Largesse and intemperance may define him. Under the Libra ascendent he may seek reform, but with Venus in detriment in Aries in the 6th, he has little support at home in Vatican City. His own seconds are arranged against him. Attempts to appease detractors will be unavailing.

The Moon near the 12th cusp - in partile opposition with Venus in detriment - suggests a conflict is binding him, someone seeks to control him, there are hidden influences confronting him - but ones in which he participates. He is in two minds, perhaps subservient to - and in tension with - a secret influence or enmity. There are suggestions of witchcraft(!).

He should avoid alcohol. However, with the Moon translating the light of Neptune via opposition to Venus, tippling (or some other substance) may bring about his downfall. Someone close to him may render him famous in death. If his term is ended short, it may be at the hand of another or by fire. He should be careful in June 18-23 this year, Jan/Feb next year, or in summer (July) of 2028.

In summary: Attempts to reform the Vatican's finances (and it's secretive Vatican Bank) are not good for Leo's health. He lacks support among his own staff. He has powerful secret enemies whom he trusts as friends. He is opposed by powerful forces in the Church's leadership. He may issue doctrine meant to appease or please the people, while treating largely – even loquaciously – to issue unorthodox and even impious canon or doctrine. He is 69 years old, relatively young, however, his reign may be shorter than expected. It may be ended publicly, notoriously, perhaps at the hand of another or by fire.