Welcome Pope Leo XIV: A New Era of Unity and Collaboration
By Linda Bordoni
With the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, Christian leaders from various denominations have come together to express their joy and support for the new Pontiff. Messages of unity, peace, and collaborative witness in the spirit of dialogue have been shared across the ecumenical spectrum.
Anglican Communion: Building Bridges
The Rt Revd Anthony Poggo, Secretary General of the Anglican Communion, has welcomed Pope Leo XIV with open arms: “We share our prayers, celebration, and encouragement as His Holiness takes up his global ministry,” he stated. He emphasized the Pope’s commitment to unity through dialogue and visible unity without fear, highlighting the collaboration between Anglicans and Catholics through institutions like ARCIC and IARCCUM.
Lutheran World Federation: Growing Towards Unity
Rev. Dr. Anne Burghardt, General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), expressed deep joy and gratitude for the new Pontiff. She voiced optimism for continued cooperation between the Roman Catholic Church and Lutheran churches, aiming to grow towards unity through joint service and shared witness to Christ.
Eastern Orthodox Churches: Embracing Dialogue
The Greek Orthodox Archbishop of America, Elpidophoros, welcomed Pope Leo XIV with fraternal esteem, acknowledging the significance of having a Pontiff from the United States. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew also expressed his support for the new Pope, highlighting the importance of dialogue, reconciliation, and care for the vulnerable. He intends to attend the installation Mass and advance the dialogue between East and West.
Gazan Orthodox community: A Message of Hope
Even in war-torn Gaza, Orthodox Christians are hopeful for peace under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV. Father Youssef Asaad, a Greek Orthodox priest, expressed confidence that the new Pontiff will prioritize peace, following in the footsteps of Pope Francis.
