Brothers and sisters, the Lord give you peace. Living in our formation house in Rome, if one looks through my office window, you will see the dome of Saint Peter’s in all its glory right there in front of you. I was keeping a close eye on that chimney just like many people throughout the world, on a live internet feed, when all of a sudden, the white smoke appeared indicating the Holy Father was elected, and I could hear the shouts of joy from the friary. As soon as I stepped out onto the street to make my way down to Saint Peter’s Square, our entire street was full of people running to now get a good glimpse of who the new pope would be. Some estimates place the attendance to close to two-hundred thousand. It was an exciting kind of chaos, and certainly a holy one. A crammed event with no trampling. Quite something.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV is the first U.S.-born pope. He brings a rich background of humility, dedication, and spiritual depth, having served in diverse ministries across continents as an Augustinian consecrated religious—from South America to Rome—and now entrusted with guiding the universal Church. His life exemplifies the Gospel’s call to serve with love and humility.
Our first reading from Acts (Acts 9:31-42) paints a picture of a Church at peace—built up in faith and walking in the fear of the Lord, strengthened by the Holy Spirit. The stories of Peter healing Aeneas and raising Tabitha from the dead are powerful signs of the Spirit’s work through faithful servants. These miracles reflect the compassion and authority given by God to build up His Church and bring hope to a world in need.
In our context, Pope Leo XIV’s journey—marked by years of service in different parts of the world, leadership in the Augustinian order, and now the papacy—is a testament to the Spirit’s guiding hand. His life mirrors the acts of Peter, who, empowered by faith and prayer, became an instrument of God’s healing and renewal.
The Gospel presents a challenging aspect of discipleship: many disciples found Jesus’ words difficult and turned away. Peter’s response, however, is profound: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.” Like Peter, we are called to deepen our faith, especially in moments of challenge and uncertainty.
Pope Leo XIV embodies the spirit of Peter’s unwavering faith. His journey from Chicago, through South America, to Rome, and now as pope, reflects a life rooted in prayer, service, and trust in the Holy Spirit. His leadership reminds us that even when the path seems difficult, Christ’s words—“I am the way, the truth, and the life”—are our guiding light.
As he steps into this historic role, let us remember that the Spirit of God empowers us all to be witnesses of Christ’s love. His experience as a canon lawyer, bishop, and superior general teaches us the importance of fidelity, humility, and listening to God’s call by remaining docile to whatever he desires from us.
Today, we are invited to renew our own commitment to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. Like Peter, we may face moments of doubt or difficulty, but our response can be one of trust: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Pope Leo XIV’s example challenges us to live out our faith boldly, to serve others with humility, and to remain steadfast in hope.
Let us pray for our new pope—may he be a shepherd after Christ’s own heart, uniting his people in truth and holiness, courageously guiding them through the deceptions of the world so as to cling all the more to One who alone is the Truth, the Way, and the Life.
In this season of new beginnings, let us embrace the Spirit’s work within us. As we celebrate the election of Pope Leo XIV, inspired by the acts of Peter and the courage of the apostles, may we always allow the tenderness of our Blessed Mother to accompany us all, for she knows best how to keep the ship afloat, sailing calmly through the waters of history, with Jesus at its helm. Mary Most Holy, Queen of the Church, pray for us who have recourse to thee.
Amen.
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May God use this pope to guide us into the desert, so that there He might speak to our hearts with special intimacy!
I was brought to tears as I saw his eyes filled with emotion knowing that he will carry the weight of Jesus’ flock. Thank you, God!