POPE LEO XIV: A SHEPHERD FOR OUR TIME

Our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has already captured the hearts of many with his radiant smile and youthful energy, especially the 1.4 billion Catholics around the world. From the moment he appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, there was something special about him. It’s not just his age or friendliness, but the way he carries many hearts within his own: the heart of a shepherd, a missionary, a listener, a man of courage, and most of all, a man of the people.

Before the world saw him in Rome, he walked the dusty streets of Peru. As a missionary priest and later as Bishop of Chiclayo, he spent years among the poor and forgotten. He lived and worked closely with the people — eating with villagers, listening to the young and the elderly, comforting grieving families, and praying with those who had lost everything. He didn’t serve from above but walked side by side with those he was sent to love.

Many of us have had a glimpse of his life through articles, interviews, live videos, and people’s stories. What stands out most is his simplicity. He hardly talks about himself, but when he speaks of the Word of God and the Social Teaching of the Church, the world stops and listens. His faith is not just words — it’s real, alive, full of compassion, and sometimes even tears and smiles. That is what makes him so close to us.

Pope Leo XIV was elected on May 8, 2025, a date full of meaning. May is the month of Mary, a time when we bring flowers to her altars, pray the Rosary as families, and turn to her gentle love. Starting his papacy in this special month, feels like Mary has been walking with him from the very beginning — just like she walked with Jesus. May is also a time of new life and hope. So this new beginning for the Church, under Pope Leo XIV, feels like a springtime of faith. Like Mary, he said “yes” with a trusting and humble heart.

Let us all look forward to two important events coming up soon: His inauguration Mass on Sunday, 18 May 2025, at 10 am(Rome time), and His first public audience during the Angelus on Wednesday, 21 May 2025.

These are not just formal events — they are moments of grace, moments that allow us to feel connected as one Church, wherever we are. We are not just welcoming a pope — we are starting a new journey of faith. Let us pray for Pope Leo XIV every day. Let us ask Mary to keep him close to her heart.

In his own words: “The Church must always lean closer to the wounded, the forgotten, and the searching. We must be a people of mercy before we are a people of answers.”

Dear Jesus, thank you for Pope Leo XIV. Give him strength, wisdom, courage, and a loving heart. Help him to lead your Church with kindness and truth. Keep him close to Mary, your Mother, and protect him always. Amen.