National Shrine Issues Statement On Election Of 1st American Born Pope

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — The Pauline Fathers at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in New Britain Township issued the following statement following the election of Pope Leo XIV - the First American Pope:

"With immense joy and profound gratitude to Almighty God, we celebrate the election of Cardinal
Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This momentous occasion marks a historic first — the first time in history that an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church worldwide.

"His election is a profound honor for the United States, the fourth largest Catholic country in the
world, home to nearly 80 million Catholics. This moment testifies to the universal nature of the
Church and the vibrancy of faith on every continent.

"The son of the American Midwest, Pope Leo XIV brings with him decades of pastoral
leadership, missionary zeal, and theological depth. His commitment to building bridges of
dialogue, defending the sanctity of life, and leading the Church with humility and mercy has
inspired countless faithful in Peru, Rome, and beyond.

"In this monumental moment, the Pauline Fathers at the National Shrine of Our Lady of
Czestochowa join the universal Church in rejoicing. They warmly invite all the faithful and people
of goodwill to unite in prayer for Pope Leo XIV, asking that he be guided by the Holy Spirit with
wisdom and courage as he shepherds the Church through this pivotal time.

"In his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV spoke words of hope
and encouragement to a world in need of healing: 'Peace be with you all. God loves us, God loves you all. And evil will not prevail.'

"As he begins his ministry as Shepherd of the Universal Church, we ask the faithful to join in
prayer for Pope Leo XIV, that he may be strengthened with wisdom, courage, and compassion through the power of the Holy Spirit.

"Together with the Church around the world, we joyfully proclaim: 'Habemus Papam!' — We have a Pope."