Superior Diocese Message On Election Of Pope Leo XIV
Pope Leo XIV address the crowd in Vatican City for the first time after being named Pope
(Vatican TV)
SUPERIOR, Wis. – Robert Prevost has been elected the first pope from the United States in the history of the Catholic Church. The Chicago-born missionary took the name Leo XIV. In his first words as Pope Francis’ successor, he emphasized peace, dialogue and missionary evangelization. Most Rev. James P. Powers Bishop of Superior released a letter in response in to the selection of Leo XIV.
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
On behalf of myself, the priests, lay leaders, and parishioners of the Diocese of Superior, we join the Universal Church in heartfelt joy and gratitude for the gift of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV.
The inspiring journey of Pope Leo XIV, leaving Chicago to serve others in Peru, resonates deeply with our own call as missionary disciples here in northern Wisconsin. His dedication echoes the spirit of outreach and service that is central to our faith.
The choice of the name Leo recalls the legacy of great pontiffs like St. Leo the Great, a true reformer, and Leo XIII, whose profound teachings on social justice continue to guide our commitment to peace and justice in our faith communities across the Diocese.
We hold in prayerful remembrance Pope Francis and now joyfully welcome Pope Leo XIV with renewed faith and commitment. As Catholics in the United States, we recognize the unique
significance of witnessing the leadership of the first American Pope and pray for his guidance upon the Church and the world.
May God grant Pope Leo XIV a blessed pontificate.
Sincerely yours in the Lord,
Most Rev. James P. Powers
Bishop of Superior
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