Pope Leo XIV
The Election of Pope Leo XIV
On 8 May 2025 the Catholic Church welcomed a new Holy Father following the passing of Pope Francis. After days of prayer in the conclave, the College of Cardinals elected Pope Leo XIV as the 267th Bishop of Rome. When he stepped onto the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica, he greeted the world with the hopeful message: “Peace be with you.”
The Meaning of His Name
Pope Leo XIV chose the name Leo to connect his ministry with earlier popes known for clear teaching, strong leadership and a deep commitment to justice. The name also echoes the tradition of Pope Leo XIII, who helped shape Catholic Social Teaching and reminded the Church of its responsibility to defend the dignity of every person. Through this choice, Pope Leo XIV signals a desire to guide the Church with compassion, courage and wisdom.
“Dilexi te” A Message of Love and Service
Pope Leo XIV’s first major teaching document is the apostolic exhortation Dilexi te, published in October 2025. Its title means “I have loved you”. In this text he explains that love for God is shown most faithfully through care for those who are poor, vulnerable or overlooked. He encourages Catholic communities to place compassion at the heart of their daily life.
Within Dilexi te, Pope Leo XIV teaches that “love for the Lord is one with love for the poor” and that the Church is called to be a people who “set no limits to love”. These ideas reflect the tone of his early papacy. They invite the Church to be generous, welcoming and ready to support anyone in need.
A Papacy of Unity and Hope
In these first months, Pope Leo XIV has spoken often about unity, peace and the importance of caring for those who feel excluded. He describes the Church as a family and encourages Catholics to work together to bring hope and dignity to others. His teaching reminds the faithful that worship and service belong together, and that expressions of faith grow stronger when they are lived out through kindness and fairness.
What This Means for Our School
Pope Leo XIV’s message continues to guide and inspire our school community. His focus on love, service and respect for every person encourages us to care for one another, act with fairness and stand alongside those who need support. His teaching strengthens the values we aim to live each day and helps us grow as a community rooted in hope and compassion.
