Providence Diocese Bishop-designate Bruce Lewandowski says as Catholic Rhode Islanders continue to remember Pope Francis, the Holy Spirit has given the Church Pope Leo the 14th.
In a statement on the election of the new Pope, the Bishop calls on the faithful to join voices with Catholics and People of Good Will around the globe to pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Pope as he assumes his responsibilities.
Rhode Island Senior Senator Jack Reed is also reacting to Pope Leo 14.
“As he prepares for his formal installation and ascension to the Papacy, I join people of all faiths in congratulating and welcoming Pope Leo XIV. Like his predecessor Pope Francis, he comes from humble beginnings and has lived an exemplary life of devoted service. I hope Pope Leo will continue to be a thoughtful leader, a force for peace, and a champion of the underprivileged. As the first American-born Pope, he will be an inspiration for many. I hope he will lead by example and help spread peace and understanding.”
Pope Leo the 14th is celebrating his first mass as leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
The mass was attended by cardinals from around the world Friday morning in the Sistine Chapel.
(Photo by ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: ALBERTO PIZZOLI / AFP / Getty Images