Habemus Papam: Welcoming Pope Leo XIV
With great joy the Church proclaims Habemus Papam—"We have a Pope!" On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the successor to Saint Peter, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He becomes the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first American-born pope, hailing originally from Chicago. Pope Leo also holds Peruvian citizenship due to decades of missionary service in Peru.
Pope Leo XIV brings to the papacy a wealth of pastoral experience, a heart for the poor, and a strong commitment to justice, evangelization, and Church unity. Formerly Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, he is deeply respected for his humility, love for Christ, and tireless advocacy for workers and marginalized communities. His choice of the name “Leo” honors Pope Leo XIII, known for championing the dignity of labor and social teaching.
In this historic moment, we are invited to pray for Pope Leo XIV—that he may be strengthened in grace, wisdom, and courage as he shepherds the Church in a time of great need and opportunity.
Let us also reflect on our own call to be “living stones” in the Church. The Holy Father’s ministry strengthens our unity as Catholics, from Rome to our own parish family here at Nativity. May this new chapter in the Church’s history rekindle in us a deeper love for Christ and a renewed spirit of mission.
Prayer for the Pope
O God, shepherd and ruler of all the faithful,
look favorably on your servant, Pope Leo XIV,
whom you have set at the head of your Church as her shepherd;
grant, we pray, that by word and example
he may be of service to those over whom he presides
so that, together with the flock entrusted to his care,
he may come to everlasting life.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.