The Jesuit Forum for Social Faith and Justice joins the faithful worldwide in welcoming the election of Pope Leo XIV. We reflect upon his chosen Papal name and the last Pope who shared this name, Pope Leo XIII. Pope Leo XIII was the author of Rerum Novarum, an encyclical on capital, labor and workers' rights. This encyclical is one of the major foundations of Catholic Social Teaching.
We also share with you below the Canadian Jesuit Provincial, Fr. Jeffrey Burwell’s welcome message.
Pope Leo XIV meetiing the journalists after the election. Credit: Jesuit.Media | General Curia Communications Office
The Jesuits of Canada join the faithful worldwide in welcoming the election of Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. With gratitude and renewed hope, we offer prayers for the Holy Father as he begins his ministry.
Born in Chicago, United States in 1955, Pope Leo XIV was ordained an Augustinian priest in 1982 and later served as a missionary and professor of theology. He was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru in 2015 and most recently held the position of Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops before his election as Bishop of Rome.
Recognized for qualities such as pastoral sensitivity as well as a commitment to synodality and peace, Pope Leo XIV brings wisdom and grounded leadership to this new mission.
This is a moment of profound significance for the Church and the world. As he assumes the leadership entrusted to the successor of Saint Peter, we pledge our steady prayers and full support.
The Jesuits of Canada look forward to working with the Holy Father to advance our ministry of justice and reconciliation. His election renews our commitment to make Jesus known with boldness and humility, especially among those living at the margins and in situations marked by hardship or exclusion.
We invite all the faithful to join us in prayer for Pope Leo XIV as he embraces the responsibilities of his new office. May the Holy Spirit provide him strength to lead the Church with courage and mercy.
Fr. Jeffrey S. Burwell, SJ
Provincial