As Bishop of Clogher I welcome the election of Pope Leo XIV and I ask for prayers for him and his future ministry. Pope Leo brings to the papacy both missionary experience and a missionary style that is reflective and compassionate, with great emphasis on listening. As we face the various challenges of today and tomorrow, these qualities will be important.
Pope Leo in his initial remarks reminded us of the peace that comes to us all from the Risen Lord. This peace is very much needed in these troubled times. Let us walk with Pope Leo in transforming our Church into a truly missionary one, filled with the peace and love of Christ and which proclaims the Gospel and the Church’s social teaching to the whole world.
The episcopal motto of Pope Leo is “In Illo uno unum” – words from Saint Augustine which remind us that, in the words of that great saint, “although we Christians are many, in the one Christ we are one”. This is the mission entrusted to our new Pope. It is our mission too.
Please pray for Pope Leo and his ministry as supreme pastor of the Church and may we all walk with him on the journey.
ENDS
- Bishop Larry Duffy is Bishop of Clogher