The Celebration of a new Pope

Just after 12 noon Ontario time, the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel spewed white smoke and the crowds, at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, went into a frenzy. The white smoke had told the world that the Cardinals had elected a new Pope. About an hour later, the new Pope stepped onto the balcony of the St. Peter’s Basilica to the cheers of the thousands in the Square. The new Pope chose the name, “LEO” and became Pope Leo XIV. Here are his first words to the world:-

Pope Leo XIV: 'Peace be with all of you'

He then said, “I would like this greeting of Peace to enter your hearts”. Of course, the questions of why the name “Leo” arose? There were a number of answers. “Leo” means “strength and knowledge”, he hinted at “peace” and “building bridges” and he is a proven supporter of “social justice” as well as “working with the poor” in Peru during his twenty years there. He indicated that he would like us to become a Missionary Church. He said, “we want to be a synodal church, walking with and always seeking peace, charity and closeness, especially to those who are suffering”. He wants us to be “always open to receiving with open arms all those who are in need of our charity, our presence, our dialogue and our love”. He also extended his “THANKS” to Pope Francis numerous times during his first address to the crowds.

Personally, my name for Pope Francis was Pope Vincentian I. My assessment is that Pole Leo XIV will honour the poor as much as Pope Francis did. In so doing, Pope Leo XIV will be nicknamed Pope Vincentian II by myself. Let us now pray to the Holy Spirit and thank him for inspiring the College of Cardinals to choose Pope Leo XIV as our new Vicar of Christ on earth. Hail to the Pope! He ended his address by asking all to pray the “Hail Mary” with him. Please join, ”Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen”.

Guido Kelly,
President

Simplicity – Humility – Gentleness – Selflessness - Zeal