Archdiocese of Bombay Rejoices in the Election of the new Pope, Pope Leo XIV
- Archdiocese of Bombay
- May 8
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Mumbai, May 8, 2025
The Archdiocese of Bombay, together with His Grace Archbishop John, joins the global Catholic community in rejoicing at the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV as the 267th Successor of Saint Peter and Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church. Echoing the sentiments of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), we welcome Pope Leo XIV with profound gratitude to God and pledge our unwavering communion with him in faith, prayer, and witness.
A Shepherd of Peace and Unity
In his first address from St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV extended a heartfelt call for peace, urging humanity to “build bridges with dialogue and encounter” and to embrace Christ’s light in a world yearning for hope. His Holiness emphasized humility, synodality, and closeness to the marginalised.
Archbishop John remarked, “We are deeply moved by Pope Leo XIV’s message of unity and his vision of a Church that is ‘open to all,’ mirroring Christ’s boundless love. His emphasis on peace, justice, and walking together as a Church that goes forth resonates profoundly with our focus in Mumbai. We pledge to amplify his call for dialogue and solidarity with the poor and vulnerable.”
Honouring Legacy, Embracing Renewal
The Archdiocese is grateful to the College of Cardinals for their prayerful discernment in electing a Pope whose pastoral experience, Augustinian spirituality, and dedication to the Gospel inspire confidence. His Holiness’ tribute to Pope Francis’ legacy of mercy and his acknowledgment of his roots in the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru—a community he praised for its “faithful witness to Christ”—reflect his deep connection to the universal Church.
Commitment to Synodality and Service
Pope Leo XIV’s call to “proclaim Christ without fear” and his invocation of Our Lady of Pompeii’s intercession for peace underscore his pontificate’s priorities. Archbishop John affirmed, “Inspired by our new Holy Father, we renew our commitment to be a witness of the Gospel, care for creation, and fostering a culture of encounter. We stand ready to support his vision, guided by the Holy Spirit and united in prayer.”
A Call to Prayer
The Archdiocese of Bombay invites all to join in praying for Pope Leo XIV as he begins his sacred ministry. May the Triune God grant him wisdom, courage, and grace to shepherd the Church in these challenging times.
Issued by the Press Office
Archdiocese of Bombay
Media Contact: Fr. Nigel Barrett
Director of Communications, Archdiocese of Bombay
