By Social Communications Ministry

Published on May 9, 2025

VATICAN CITY– The Catholic Church has a new shepherd.

following the conclave held in Vatican City, the College of Cardinals has elected Cardinal Robert Prevost from the US, who will be known as Pope Leo XIV, as the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church.

Known for his pastoral approach and strong emphasis on dialogue, Pope Leo XIV is not a stranger to Filipino Catholics. He previously visited the Philippines, leaving a lasting impression on the local Church through his simplicity, compassion, and closeness to the people. During his visit, he celebrated Mass with thousands of faithful and met with clergy, youth, and marginalized communities, showing deep appreciation for the country’s strong Catholic identity.

The election of Pope Leo XIV was met with joy and prayer across the Philippines, home to over 85 million Catholics, making it the third-largest Catholic population in the world. Churches across the country rang their bells in celebration, and special prayers were offered for the new pope’s guidance and leadership.

In a statement, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) welcomed the election with gratitude. “We thank the Holy Spirit for guiding the Church in this important moment. Pope Leo XIV has shown a deep love for Asia and for our country. We pray that his papacy will bring peace, unity, and renewal.”

Pope Leo XIV succeeds his predecessor in a time of global challenges, including issues of poverty, migration, climate change, and the need for interfaith dialogue. His connection to the global South, and especially to the Filipino faithful, is seen as a hopeful sign for many in the region.

At San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish in Tanay, Rizal, parishioners gathered for a special Holy Hour and rosary in thanksgiving for the new pope.

Filipinos recall his warmth and sincerity during his past visit, where he called on the youth to “never be afraid to carry the light of Christ” and urged the Church in the Philippines to remain “a beacon of hope in Asia.”

As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, many in the Philippines and around the world look forward to how his leadership will shape the Church in the years to come.

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