We celebrated a moment of profound joy, a foretaste of Easter’s hope, as Pope Leo XIV was announced as the new successor of St. Peter on May 8, 2025. 
Pope Leo XIV, a humble servant who walks as a brother among his people, has pledged to serve the unity of all and proclaim the peace of the Risen Christ. His first words as pontiff resonate with a deep call to love and unity, inviting us to walk together in God’s embrace. Let us hold him in prayer as he embarks on this sacred mission.
In a touching revelation, the Holy Father explained his choice of name:
“I chose the name Leo XIV, inspired by Pope Leo XIII, whose encyclical Rerum Novarum addressed the social challenges of the first industrial revolution. Today, as we navigate a new era shaped by artificial intelligence and technological advancements, the Church’s social teaching remains a beacon, defending human dignity, justice, and the value of work.”
This choice signals his commitment to guiding the Church through modern complexities, ensuring the Gospel speaks to contemporary questions while upholding the sanctity of every person.