Tinubu, Trump, World leaders congratulate new Pope
Tinubu, Trump, World leaders congratulate new Pope
World leaders congratulated Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost for his emergence as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American Pope in the history of the Catholic Church. The 69-year-old Pope was elected on Thursday after the fourth ballot cast by Cardinals in the conclave, which began on Wednesday.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV is a member of the religious order of St. Augustine. He was ordained a priest on June 19, 1982, and spent many years as a missionary in Peru before being elected head of the Augustinians for two consecutive terms. He was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo by Pope Francis in 2015 and later became Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America in 2023.
Minutes after white smoke billowed from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced to the waiting crowds, “I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope.” Emerging from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV’s first words to the waiting crowds at the Vatican were, “Peace be with all of you.” He pledged to work for a united Church faithful to Jesus and to the Gospel.
Reactions from World Leaders
Global leaders have expressed hope for a papacy focused on unity, peace, and human dignity. Some notable reactions include:
United States President Donald Trump called the appointment a “great honour” for the country and looked forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV, describing it as a “very meaningful moment.”
President Bola said the election of Pope Leo XIV opens a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church, projecting values of love, humanity, and charity.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed hope that the new pope would become a strong advocate for migrants, particularly Latin American communities facing adversity in the United States.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the opportunity to deepen relations between Israel and the Vatican, expressing a desire for strengthened interfaith ties.
Russian President Vladimir Putin noted the shared Christian values between Russia and the Vatican, affirming continued dialogue and cooperation.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the Pope provides hope and guidance to millions of believers around the world in challenging times.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed hopes that the pontificate would strengthen dialogue and human rights.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wished Pope Leo XIV a tenure marked by peace and wisdom, guided by wisdom and strength.
Pope Leo XIV has emphasized the importance of unity, peace, and charity, echoing the sentiments of his predecessor, Pope Francis. His historic election marks a new chapter in the Catholic Church’s history, with many looking forward to his leadership and vision.
