Mennonite World Conference congratulates Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on his election as Pope and 267th Bishop of Rome 8 May 2025, taking the papal name Leo XIV. The election makes history with the first pope selected from North America, following Pope Francis (Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio) who was the first Latin American.
In a letter to Pope Leo XIV, César García, MWC general secretary, wrote: “We believe that our official dialogues with the Catholic church have created essential opportunities for enhancing the connection between our churches. As my global communion commemorates 500 years in a few days, I hope your pontificate will open new doors for healing memories and strengthening our relationship as followers of Christ.”
In his first appearance in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV greeted the faithful by invoking the peace of the risen Christ, the love of God which extends to all, and inviting the church to walk together without fear. He called for a missionary spirit with an attitude of bridge building and open arms.
The new pope switched from Latin to Spanish at one point to address his diocese of Chiclayo in Peru.
“I praise our Lord for your emphasis on a synodal church that walks closely with those who are suffering,” wrote César García in his letter, responding to Pope Leo XIV’s desire for “a synodal church, walking and always seeking peace, charity, closeness, especially to those who are suffering.”
“I praise our Lord for your emphasis on a synodal church that walks closely with those who are suffering,”
César García
“Confessing Christ together with Christians in other traditions is part of the mission of MWC. We invite our members to uphold Pope Leo XIV in prayer as he faces the challenges of leadership and particularly for his work in the ministry of unity in the body of Christ,” says Henk Stenvers, MWC president.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is from Chicago, Illinois, USA. He is the first member of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A) to be elected as pope. He served for more than a decade in the O.S.A. missions in Peru; taught canon law, patristics, and moral theology in seminary; and held leadership roles in the O.S.A. Following his appointment as Bishop of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, in 2015, Pope Francis appointed him Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023 and promoted him to Archbishop; and appointed him as a member of the Dicasteries for Evangelization. His appointment as Cardinal took effect in 2024.