Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
The election of Pope Leo XIV marks a moment of deep significance for the Church and the world. Chosen during the Easter season—as the Church proclaims for many Sundays the themes of the Gospel of the Good Shepherd—the timing of his election is providential. For the task of the pope is precisely that—to shepherd the flock of Christ in His name, to teach and defend the truth, and to be the visible sign of unity among the faithful.
The role of the pope is not one of personal prestige or innovation, but of sacred stewardship. As the successor of the Apostle Peter, Pope Leo XIV stands in the unbroken line of those entrusted by Our Lord with the care of the whole Church. To Peter alone did Christ say, “Thou art Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church” (Matthew 16:18). To Peter alone He entrusted the keys of the Kingdom. And to Peter alone He gave the charge, “Strengthen thy brethren” (Luke 22:32) and “Feed my sheep” (John 21:17). The pope does not speak of his own authority but teaches and governs with the authority of Christ, insofar as he faithfully transmits what the Church has always believed, taught, and lived.
The papacy is a gift from Christ to His Church. It is not a man-made office—nor a bureaucratic function—but a divinely instituted ministry meant to preserve unity in faith, to safeguard doctrine from error, and to confirm the brethren in fidelity to the Gospel. In the pope, the Church finds not a celebrity or a political leader, but the servant of the servants of God—a shepherd configured to Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve.
At a time when the world is fractured and many voices clamor for attention, the Church needs a clear voice that speaks the truth with charity and conviction. The pope, when he faithfully exercises his office, is that voice—not as a private theologian, but as the visible head of the Church on earth—bearing the responsibility of teaching with authority, judging with justice, and governing with mercy.
Pope Leo XIV now carries this sacred burden. His fidelity to the Deposit of Faith will determine the strength and fruitfulness of his pontificate. It is our duty as the faithful to support him—not with blind enthusiasm, but with thoughtful obedience and constant prayer. His task is immense: to guard the Church from error, to preserve her sacred liturgy, to protect the flock from spiritual wolves, and to promote the unity of all who confess the name of Christ.
Let us, then, always pray earnestly for Pope Leo XIV. May he be a faithful and courageous successor of Peter—teaching nothing but what the Church has always taught—and leading with the humility and strength of the Good Shepherd. May he uphold the sacred traditions of the Church and defend her from all confusion. And may his pontificate be marked by clarity, continuity, and a renewal of the Catholic faith throughout the world.
Saint Peter, pray for him.
Mary, Queen of the Apostles, intercede for him.
Christ, the Good Shepherd, guard and guide him.
Amen.
Father Brent Stull
Parochial Vicar