POPE LEO XIV!
We, in the Stewardship & Development Office, are so excited about our new Pope Leo XIV! We are already making plans for our pilgrimage to Chicago to see him in what (we expect) will be an epic visit sometime soon.
In the meantime, we thought we'd dedicate a portion of our monthly newsletter to help keep you up to date on his papacy.
Highlights of Pope Leo's first month include:
Choice of Papal Name. Leo XIV chose his name to honor Pope Leo XIII, signaling a commitment to social justice and the Church’s role in addressing modern challenges like technology and AI.
Emphasis on Peace and Social Justice. In his first public addresses, including his Urbi et Orbi blessing on May 8 and Sunday address on May 11, Leo XIV called for global peace, specifically urging ceasefires in Ukraine and Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages, and praising the India-Pakistan truce. He also highlighted social justice, echoing Pope Leo XIII’s advocacy for workers’ rights.
Inaugural Mass Draws Global Attention. On May 18, 2025, Pope Leo XIV presided over his inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square, attended by over 200,000 people, including world leaders like U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte. The Mass emphasized unity, peace, and love, setting the tone for his papacy.
First General Audience and Gospel Focus. On May 21, 2025, Leo XIV held his first General Audience, reflecting on the parable of the sower to emphasize God’s inclusive love and the Church’s mission to spread the Gospel. He stressed that “Jesus’ word is for everyone,” reinforcing evangelization as a priority.