Monsignor Welcomes Pope LEO XIV

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Let us give thanks to the Holy Spirit and the cardinals for the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV—Robert Prevost. He is the first American pope and a brother of St. Augustine.

We pray as he begins this ministry, confident he will continue the spirit of Pope Francis: a listening church, walking with the poor, going out to the margins, and that believes God is always moving forward.

In his first words to the world, Pope Leo spoke of building bridges—between people, cultures, and the church itself. That hope resonates deeply with St. Monica as we strive to be a community where all are welcome. Here at St. Monica, we share a special connection as Pope Leo served as cardinal-deacon of the Church of St. Monica in Rome. This is a quiet chapel just steps from the Vatican. Just like our patroness St. Monica, the spirit of persistence in prayer and strength in love resonates in the life of the church today.

Pope Leo brings a humble and missionary heart, formed by years serving the people of Peru and beyond. He comprehends the world not just on the surface, but through the lives of those he has walked with—accompanying, listening, and learning.

May we be filled with hope that with his vision, the church will continue to grow in synodality—committed to discernment, conversations in the spirit, and the shared journey of faith. May we be a church that listens more than it speaks, one that offers not judgment, but the joy of the Gospel.

Holy Father Leo, we pray with you and for you. May your service be marked by love, courage, and the quiet strength of the Shepherd. Let us thank God for the gift of your “yes.”

Msgr. Lloyd Torgerson

Tomorrow, May 9, at 7 a.m., all priests will celebrate a Mass praying for our new pope.