The Catholic Church, and indeed the whole world, stands at a profound moment of transition. With hearts full of both sorrow and gratitude, we mourn the passing of Pope Francis, our beloved Holy Father, while also welcoming Pope Leo XIV, who has been called to carry the mission of Christ forward as the 267th successor of St Peter.
Remembering Pope Francis: A Life of Humble Service
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was elected pope in 2013 and became a beacon of humility, compassion, and spiritual leadership in a complex and divided world. As the first Jesuit pope, the first from Latin America, and the first to take the name Francis, after St Francis of Assisi, he brought with him a powerful vision of a Church that walks with the poor, cares for creation, and embraces mercy over judgement.
Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis reminded us that the Church must be close to the people, especially to those on the margins. His words and actions consistently called us to a simpler, more authentic faith rooted in the Gospel. Whether washing the feet of prisoners, visiting migrants and refugees, or addressing the global climate crisis through his landmark encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis encouraged the Church to look outward, engage in dialogue with all, and to serve with love.
He challenged the world to build bridges, not walls, and to see Christ in the face of every person. In his writings, his preaching, and his way of living, he inspired millions across the globe, Catholics and non-Catholics alike. He is an example that we can all follow in our lives.
Pope Francis passed away in Rome, surrounded by prayers throughout the world, after over a decade of extraordinary leadership. The legacy he leaves behind is one of courage, compassion, and hope - a reminder that the Church must always be close to the people and alive in the world.
Welcoming Pope Leo XIV: A New Chapter Begins
Following the death of Pope Francis, the College of Cardinals gathered in conclave and, guided by the Holy Spirit, elected Robert Francis Prevost as the new Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church. He has chosen the name Pope Leo XIV, evoking a lineage of strong, visionary leadership in the Church’s history.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, joined the Augustinians in 1977 and was ordained a priest in Rome in 1982. After earning degrees in Mathematics, Philosophy, Theology, and Canon Law, he served in missionary roles in Peru and later became Prior General of the Augustinian Order. In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him Apostolic Administrator of Chiclayo, Peru, where he was later made bishop. In 2023, he was named Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and made a cardinal. His rich pastoral and international experience now shapes his leadership as the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. In his first address, he paid tribute to Pope Francis, thanking him for his life of service and for modelling a Church of mercy and mission.
By choosing the name “Leo,” the new pope aligns himself with past popes who faced the challenges of their times with clarity, courage, and faith. Pope Leo I defended the faith against division in the 5th century; Pope Leo XIII was a champion of Catholic social teaching and workers' rights in the modern era. In this same spirit, Pope Leo XIV begins his pontificate with a desire to bring healing, reconciliation, and renewed purpose to a world in need of hope.
A Time to Pray, Reflect, and Look Ahead
This is a moment of grace and transition. As we mourn the death of Pope Francis, we give thanks for all he gave to the Church and to the world. His legacy will continue to shape our faith and inspire our journey for generations to come. At the same time, we open our hearts to the future under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV.
We pray that the Holy Spirit may guide our new Holy Father with wisdom and strength. May he lead with the same humility, courage, and compassion that marked the papacy of Pope Francis. And may we, as members of the Body of Christ, respond with faith, openness, and a renewed commitment to the Gospel.