Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Habemus Papam! We Have a Pope!
With great joy, we celebrate the election of Pope Leo XVI. I was quite surprised at how quickly this conclave elected a new Pope—and even more surprised that we now have the first American Pope!
As I’m sure you all know by now, white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel just after 6 p.m. Roman time. After only four ballots, the cardinal electors chose Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago-born Augustinian. He has spent much of his ministry as a missionary in Peru. As a member of the Augustinian Order, he was elected twice as their Prior General. In 2015, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo. In 2023, he was named Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, which helps the Pope in selecting bishops around the world. That same year, he was also appointed President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America and was elevated to the rank of Cardinal.
In his opening remarks, the new Pontiff focused on unity, peace, and dialogue among all peoples. By choosing the name Leo XVI, he pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, who is known for authoring Rerum Novarum, the first of the modern social encyclicals. It seems clear that Pope Leo XVI will prioritize peace and continue the mission of Pope Francis by reaching out to the poor and marginalized throughout the world.
Of course, there is much to celebrate, but also much to pray for. I’m sure our new Holy Father is still overwhelmed by the weight of this responsibility and would deeply appreciate our support and prayers. Let us especially pray that he be filled with the Holy Spirit, with wisdom, and with courage to lead the flock in accordance with God’s holy will.
Also, for those who watched or listened to the papal blessing, you may receive a plenary indulgence, provided the usual conditions are met: receiving Communion, going to confession, praying for the intentions of the Holy Father, and being detached from all sin.
I pray that each of you may be filled with God’s peace and strength, living each day more deeply united to Christ. Know of my continued prayers for all of you.
In Christ, 
Fr. Peter Wigton
