May 8, 2025

The College of Cardinals has elected Cardinal Robert Prevost, OSA, as the 267th pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church. Known as Pope Leo XIV, he is notable for being the first American-born pope. His background includes years as a missionary in Peru and serving as bishop of Chiclayo, Peru. In 2023, he was appointed prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.

Franciscan University of Steubenville's leadership and faculty have expressed their prayers and reflections on Pope Leo XIV's election. Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, President of Franciscan University, said: “To God be the glory! With trust in God’s providence, I rejoice with the entire Church in the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. An Augustinian friar, who has vowed to live in poverty, chastity, and obedience, our new Holy Father has served Christ and the Church in the United States, Peru, and Rome. As he now takes up leadership of the worldwide Catholic Church, I pray the Holy Spirit will use Pope Leo XIV to draw all members of the Church and the world into the saving love of Jesus.”

Father Jonathan St. André, TOR, Vice President for Franciscan Life at Franciscan University stated: “We rejoice in the election of Pope Leo XIV. In his opening address to the world, Pope Leo said that the world needs light, and he invited us to be disciples following Christ. We rejoice in his election, and we believe that through his guidance, and above all, the power of the Holy Spirit, we will move forward as disciples who reflect the light of Christ to our world.”

Dr. Stephen Hildebrand remarked: “How wonderful to have a pope! We thank God for Pope Leo XIV and for his ministry to make us faithful to the Gospel... And we pray for Pope Leo. May God strengthen and sustain him for this most important work.”

Dr. Ronald Bolster expressed gratitude: “I am grateful and humbled to witness... a new father on earth... May God grant him wisdom and courage... May... all his children may flourish.”

Dr. Jeffrey Morrow noted: “This is a historical moment in the Church... We should unite ourselves in prayer for... Pope Leo XIV.”

Finally, Dr. Jacob W. Wood commented on Pope Leo XIV's role: “The Holy Father called us to be missionary bridge builders... He bridges Global North and South; Old World and New; tradition with missionary needs today.”