PEACE BE WITH YOU! – Those were the first words spoken to those gathered in Saint Peter’s Square and to the world watching as Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of Saint Peter’s. It was a momentous event for the Catholic Church, and the world, as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a native of Chicago and former missionary in Peru, was elected our next pope. His election as Pope Leo XIV marks a series of firsts. He is the first pope with dual United States and Peruvian citizenship and the first member of the order of Saint Augustine to ascend to the papacy.

Most importantly, Pope Leo’s early messages have resonated deeply with those seeking moral clarity and compassion in leadership, especially in contrast to much of the divisive rhetoric and policies associated with others in leadership roles in our world today. In his inaugural address from St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV emphasized unity, peace, and compassion, stating “PEACE BE WITH YOU.” He reaffirmed God’s unconditional love for all humanity and called for a Church that embraces dialogue, charity, and justice.

During his first Sunday appearance on May 11, Pope Leo XIV made a heartfelt appeal for global peace, urging an end to conflicts in regions such as Gaza, the Ukraine, and now India and Pakistan. He warned of a “third world war being fought piecemeal” and called upon world powers to prioritize peace and humanitarian efforts.

In a meeting with over 1,000 journalists on May 12, Pope Leo XIV underscored the importance of freedom of the press and responsible communication. He advocated for the release of detained journalists and emphasized the media’s role in promoting truth and giving voice to the marginalized. His commitment to social justice, environmental stewardship, and inclusivity reflects a continuation of Pope Francis’ reformist legacy. His leadership offers a hopeful vision for a Church that stands as a beacon of compassion and unity for both our country and the world grappling with division and unrest. We cannot only passively agree with his words but must try to live as he suggested in his inaugural address as the new pope: “May the Church always be a house for all. May no one be excluded from God’s mercy. May the language of peace rise louder than the noise of war.” 

In Thanksgiving, let us share this prayer:

Lord of peace and justice, you have raised up Pope Leo XIV to shepherd your Church in a time of great division and suffering. Bless him with wisdom, courage, and compassion. May his voice echo Christ’s mercy in every land, and may his heart remain open to the cries of the poor, the broken, and the forgotten.

Grant us, too, the grace not just to hear his words, but walk in his example – to speak truth with love, to defend the dignity of each person, to care for your creation and to become instruments of your peace in our families, our communities, and our world. In following the Pope’s witness, may we grow closer to you. Amen!

Have a great week ahead.

With you a Christian. For you a priest.

Father Carl Morello
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena – St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish