“This past week, we witnessed a moment that many deemed impossible: the election of the first pope from the United States, Leo XIV. This historic occasion fills our hearts with profound hope and boundless enthusiasm. In a time marked by violations of human dignity within our own nation, the elevation of a U.S. citizen to the papacy offers a unique and powerful voice, one that can speak to our experiences in our own language.”
“His chosen name, Leo, resonates deeply, signaling a clear commitment to the poor and to social justice. It evokes the legacy of Leo XIII, whose encyclical Rerum Novarum laid the foundation for Catholic Social Teaching, championing the natural rights of every person and the inherent dignity of all.”
“As Pontifex Maximus, the great bridge builder, Pope Leo XIV has said that he wanted to be a promoter of unity. From the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, he expressed a profound desire to bridge divides and foster reconciliation. In this era of economic and social uncertainty, his closing words — ‘God loves us, and evil will not prevail’ — serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the enduring power of faith. May his pontificate be a testament to justice, unity, and unwavering love, ushering in a new era of hope for the world.”
Most Reverend Dennis G. Walsh
Bishop of Davenport
