In the Jubilee of Hope, amidst a world yearning for love and mercy, confidence prevails that the Holy Father, by testifying to the Gospel of Jesus, will promote inter-religious dialogue and societal engagement, building bridges in the service of fraternity in the pursuit of peace and justice, offering humanity renewed sparks of hope,” stated a communiqué from the Episcopal Conference of Portugal (CEP) on the election of the Pope.
The bishops noted the prevailing “complex global context, with mounting concerns over armed conflicts, social inequalities, and environmental crises,” in addition to “the rapid pace of social, cultural, and technological transformations.”
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, aged 69, was elected Pope today, following two days of conclave in Vatican City, assuming the name Leo XIV.
Born in Chicago, USA, the new Pope has Spanish ancestry and Peruvian nationality, and is affiliated with the Order of St. Augustine.
Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, at the age of 88.
“We wish Pope Leo XIV a fruitful pastoral mission in guiding the People of God, fostering unity within our diversity, and pursuing the synodal path for a renewed and missionary Church, standing alongside migrants, the poor, the frail, and the marginalized,” the CEP communiqué, led by the Bishop of the Diocese of Leiria-Fátima, José Ornelas, affirmed.
Expressing “communion and fidelity towards the new successor of Peter,” the bishops pray “that the Spirit of God may strengthen him in the mission he now assumes” and invite “all faithful to join in prayer for the challenges” of this ministry in the Church and the world.
“We entrust the pastoral ministry of Leo XIV to Our Lady of Fátima and her maternal intercession,” continued the CEP statement, noting the profound joy with which the bishops welcomed the election of the new Pope.
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