Welcoming Pope Leo XIV: A Message of Peace and Unity
Leaders of Eastern-rite Catholic Churches and Orthodox Churches have embraced the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. The news was met with joy and hope, as Pope Leo’s first words centered around the theme of peace.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople shared his excitement about the new pontiff during an event in Athens. In a video message, he expressed his desire for collaboration and unity between their churches, emphasizing the importance of working together for the benefit of all humanity.
Bartholomew also highlighted the ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the Christian East and West, particularly referencing his joint efforts with Pope Francis in the areas of dialogue and environmental care.
The Metropolitan Archbishop of Hajdudorog, Hungary, Metropolitan Fulop Kocsis, praised Pope Leo’s message of peace, noting the significance of the Pope’s choice of name in emphasizing social sensitivity and unity within the Church.
As the first words of Pope Leo XIV resonated with hope and peace, Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of Kyiv-Halych expressed his belief that the new Pope would bring blessings and peace to the suffering Ukrainian people.
The Greek Orthodox Archbishop Elpidophoros of America echoed the sentiment of fraternity and dialogue between their churches, emphasizing the shared commitment to humility, openness, and mutual respect.
Mar Joy Alappatt of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of St. Thomas in Chicago looked forward to a renewed focus on synodality and dialogue under Pope Leo XIV’s papacy, highlighting the importance of honoring liturgical traditions and engaging with ancient practices.
Overall, the election of Pope Leo XIV has brought a sense of unity, hope, and collaboration among Eastern and Western Christian leaders, setting the stage for a new era of dialogue and mutual understanding.
This article was originally published by Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA). All rights reserved. Unauthorized republication by third parties is not permitted.
