Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The election of Pope Leo XIV was a surprising yet joyful event, according to Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre. Speaking at a press conference held at the Archdiocese of Louisville Pastoral Center, he expressed his excitement about Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost's introduction as the new Holy Father.

“I never thought I would live to see the day that an American would be elected pope,” said Archbishop Fabre. He described it as “a very, very exciting day for the church, a day of great, great joy.”

Although he does not know Pope Leo XIV personally, Archbishop Fabre pledged his loyalty and support to him. He highlighted the historic nature of having an American pontiff and stated, “Our faith here in this country... has now produced a gift for all Catholics in the world, Pope Leo XIV.”

Pope Leo XIV hails from Chicago and has spent many years in Peru with the Augustinian order. His election occurred on the first full day of the conclave. The speed of the vote suggested unity among cardinals, according to Archbishop Fabre.

“Before they enter into conclave... they do have discussions about what are the needs of the church and who do we see amongst us who possesses those gifts? And so I do believe that Leo XIV’s gifts were obviously known,” he remarked.

Archbishop Fabre anticipates that Pope Leo XIV will continue building on Pope Francis's ministry. He noted that Pope Leo's first words were “Peace be with you,” echoing Jesus' words after resurrection.

He emphasized that Pope Leo XIV's address stressed being a missionary church and building bridges through dialogue while welcoming all with open arms. These statements reflect continuity with important themes from Pope Francis's tenure.

Regarding what the pope represents globally beyond Christianity, Archbishop Fabre said, “I think that all people of good will... can see in the pope someone who lifts up for us a call to do the right thing.”

When asked about his hopes for Pope Leo XIV, Archbishop Fabre mentioned shared introversion and prayed for him during this transition period. He expressed hope that Pope Leo would embody qualities from previous popes like John Paul II’s intellectual ability and Benedict’s theological insight.

“I pray that he... will always call us to hope,” added Archbishop Fabre. This hope is rooted in Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to strive towards being who Christ calls them to be.