Habemus Papam
We have a Pope
These ancient words, spoken from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, echo with joy and reverence across the world.
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon join the global Catholic community in welcoming Pope Leo XIV, newly elected as the 267th Bishop of Rome. Chosen by the Holy Spirit and announced to the world by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti, Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy with the words:
“Peace be with all of you.”
Matthew 16:19
Jesus says to Peter, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.”
Jesus’s symbolic gift to Peter represented the authority and power Jesus gave him to open and shut the kingdom of heaven by preaching the gospel. Now, we join the entire world in recognizing Pope Leo XIV — an Augustinian brother — a shepherd formed by faith, humility, and a lifelong commitment to service as the new head of the Catholic Church. His election is a moment of grace, calling the Church to unity, compassion, and renewed hope in Christ.
“Peace be with all of you.” These words, spoken first by Jesus after the Resurrection, now guide the beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate. They remind us that our faith is rooted in peace — not as absence of struggle, but as a living presence of Christ in our midst.
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon are united in prayer for Pope Leo XIV as he assumes this sacred ministry. We will lift him in our daily Masses and prayers, asking the Holy Spirit to bless his leadership and mission.
May we walk together in faith, hope, and peace — trusting in God’s guidance through this new chapter in the life of the Church.
