Pope Leo XIV

Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost the American/Peruvian Cardinal on becoming the new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV on his historic election. The new Holy Father is the 267th pope of the Catholic Church! As the first American pope, he brings a fresh perspective to the role, inspiring millions worldwide. The Holy Father goes onto say in his opening speech:

“Peace be with all of you!

Dearest brothers and sisters, this is the first greeting of the Risen Christ, the good shepherd who gave his life for God's flock. I too would like this greeting of peace to enter your heart, to reach your families, to all people, wherever they are, to all peoples, to the whole earth. Peace be with you!

This is the peace of the Risen Christ, an unarmed and disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, God who loves us all unconditionally. We still have in our ears that weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis who blessed Rome!

The pope who blessed Rome gave his blessing to the world, to the entire world, that Easter morning.

Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God cares for us, God loves all of us, and evil will not prevail! We are all in God's hands. Therefore, without fear, united hand in hand with God and among ourselves, let us move forward.

We are disciples of Christ. Christ goes before us. The world needs His light. Humanity needs Him as the bridge to reach God and His love.

Help us too, then help each other to build bridges - with dialogue, with encounter, uniting all of us to be one people always in peace. Thank you, Pope Francis!

I also want to thank all the fellow cardinals who chose me to be the Successor of Peter and to walk with you, as a united Church always seeking peace, justice - always trying to work as men and women faithful to Jesus Christ, without fear, to proclaim the Gospel, to be missionaries.

I am a son of Saint Augustine, (an) Augustinian, who said: "With you I am a Christian and for you a bishop." In this sense, we can all walk together towards that homeland that God has prepared for us.

To the Church of Rome, a special greeting! We must seek together how to be a missionary Church, a Church that builds bridges (and) dialogue, always open to receive (people), like this square, with open arms - everyone, all those who need our charity, our presence, dialogue and love.”

The new Holy Father Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo's message of unity and peace resonates deeply: "God loves us, all of us, evil will not prevail. We are all in the hands of God. Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward." His words echo hope and reassurance.

Let's welcome Pope Leo XIV with open hearts and prayers, wishing him guidance and wisdom as he embarks on this significant journey. May his papacy be a beacon of love, compassion, and unity for all people.

As various leaders have expressed, Pope Leo XIV's leadership offers an opportunity for the Church to reaffirm its commitment to educational mission, interfaith dialogue, and promoting peace and coexistence. Let's join together in supporting our new Holy Father.