The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has responded to the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the 267th pope. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the conference, expressed his thoughts in a statement.

"In communion with Catholics around the world, the bishops of the United States offer prayers of thanksgiving for the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV," he said. Broglio noted that during his lifetime, the Church has seen a series of popes who were uniquely prepared for their respective times but shared a mission to spread the Gospel's timeless truth.

Broglio highlighted Pope Leo XIV's international experience, noting his roles as a student and superior in Rome, a bishop in Peru, and his work with the Dicastery for Bishops. "Certainly, we rejoice that a son of this Nation has been chosen by the cardinals, but we recognize that he now belongs to all Catholics and to all people of good will," he stated.

The archbishop also mentioned Pope Leo XIV's words promoting peace, unity, and missionary activity as an indication of his future direction. He concluded by expressing trust in the Holy Spirit and hopes that Pope Leo XIV will be "a watchful and wise shepherd" who will confirm faith and inspire hope worldwide.