Habemus Papam

Pope Leo XIV shares his first papal message

On May 8, 2025, the Catholic Church witnessed a historic moment as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the 267th Pope, taking the name Leo XIV. This marks the first time an American has ascended to the papacy. The announcement was made from St. Peter’s Basilica by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti, following the traditional declaration, “Habemus Papam” (“We have a Pope”)

In his first public address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV greeted the faithful with the words, “Peace be with you.”

I would like this greeting of peace to resound in your hearts, in your families, among all people, wherever they may be, in every nation and throughout the world.  Peace be with you!

Born in Chicago in 1955, Pope Leo XIV also holds dual citizenship with the United States and Peru. His extensive missionary work in Latin America, including his time as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, has shaped his pastoral approach and his commitment to accompanying marginalized communities. His leadership role in the Vatican’s bishop appointments under Pope Francis further underscores his dedication to social justice and pastoral care. Continuing in the spirit of Pope Francis, he thanked the late Pope for his years or service and emphasized the need to foster peace and unity by building bridges through dialogue. 

Help us, one and all, to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, joining together as one people, always at peace. 

The Office for Social Ministry expresses our gratitude to God for the gift of Pope Leo XIV. “Gracias a Dios for the Holy Spirit’s gift of a new missionary pope-a humble pastoral shepherd who has accompanied marginalized people and whose first words as pope are about peace, building bridges, dialogue, encounter and working together. It is notable our new pope chose the name Leo XIV after Pope Leo XIII who was committed to Catholic Social Teaching on social justice and peace. What a blessing for all!  Mahalo Ke Akua!”