Habemus Papem! Welcome Pope Leo XIV

Dear Seton Hall Community,

This is a historic day of great joy for Seton Hall, our nation and Catholics around the globe.

Earlier this afternoon, from the Loggia of the Blessings at St. Peter's Basilica, the world was introduced to Pope Leo XIV.

Relying on the Holy Spirit, the voting cardinals chose the former Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., on the second day of the conclave.

An Augustinian from Chicago, he is the first pope from the United States!

The evening sun had just set over St. Peter's when he stepped onto the central balcony and bestowed the Urbi et Orbi blessing on Rome and the world. Thanking his predecessor, Pope Francis, the new pontiff said the Church will build bridges with open arms.

He then led the faithful who filled St. Peter's Square in praying the Hail Mary.

Pope Leo XIV is the 267th leader of global Catholicism, the latest in a line of succession from St. Peter, the rock upon which Christ built His church.

Certainly, there will be much written about our new leader in the coming days and weeks, as the world becomes better acquainted with him. But for now, we know enough for our hearts to overflow with joy and praise.

Habemus Papem! And thanks be to God for that.

Please join me in praying for our new Holy Father.

Yours truly in the Risen Christ,

Monsignor Reilly

Categories: Faith and Service, Nation and World