Here’s Palm Beach Bishop’s Message on New Pope

By Marci Shatzman The Bishop of Palm Beach, the Most. Rev. Gerald M. Barbarito, just released his statement on the election of Pope Leo XIV. “On his passing, I reflected upon our beloved Pope Francis as a Pope of surprises in so many ways, and in continuing with that I can honestly say that Pope Leo XIV is a Pope of surprises as well. “With so many others, I was convinced that the choice of a Pope from the United States would be most unlikely, but it seems that Pope Francis, from heaven, has given us another surprise. I am delighted by the choice of this man, who possesses so many spiritual gifts, pastoral competency, and linguistic talents. “Pope Leo XIV is an Augustinian priest who spent much of his ministry as a missionary in Peru. He has worked in the Vatican for a number of years and is a true man of the Church in every way. “A Pope is chosen by the Holy Spirit and the office that he holds has nothing to do with his nationality or country of origin. He is a Pope for all Catholics all over the world. There is no question that Pope Leo XIV will serve with the same zeal, effectiveness, and holiness that so many of our recent extraordinary Popes exhibited within our times. “We join in fervent prayer for Pope Leo XIV as he undertakes his new ministry of unity for the Church.” Here’s Palm Beach Bishop’s Message on New PopeDiocese of Palm Beach: “We Have a Pope” Peace Be With You: Pope Leo XIV’s First Words as Pontiff Inspire Unity and Hope Leo XIV: The First Augustinian Pope and the Surprising Rise of a Citizen of the World https://www.vaticannews.va/en.html