Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Bishop James Conley will lead a Mass of Thanksgiving for Pope Leo XIV on Monday, May 19, at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ in Lincoln. This event is open to everyone.

On May 8, Bishop Conley was among those watching the announcement of the new pope from the Vatican. He and several chancery staff members gathered in the diocesan Chancery office library to witness white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel smokestack, indicating a new pope had been selected. The bells of the nearby Cathedral of the Risen Christ rang out soon after.

Bishop Conley, who spent ten years working at the Vatican, recognized Cardinal Prevost's name immediately upon hearing it announced as Pope Leo XIV. “American!” he exclaimed. In an interview, Bishop Conley expressed his surprise: “I was absolutely shocked,” he said. “I just didn’t think it was possible for an American to become pope.”

Following this revelation, Bishop Conley engaged in multiple interviews with local media about Pope Leo XIV's election. Although he hadn't met Cardinal Prevost personally, they had exchanged letters previously. Conversations with fellow bishops who had met Cardinal Prevost highlighted his authenticity and decency.

Father Joseph Wahlmeier and Father Andrew Schwenka, priests studying in Rome, also shared their experiences during this period through interviews and video commentaries. They were present in St. Peter’s Square when white smoke signaled a new pope's election. Father Schwenka described being part of the crowd’s excitement and anticipation as "wild."

The announcement of Pope Leo XIV brought joy to many in St. Peter’s Square. Father Wahlmeier recounted how Chicago priests reacted with disbelief upon learning that an American had been elected pope.

Both priests produced videos reflecting on these events and shared them via social media platforms like YouTube under @CatholicDioceseOfLincoln.

A short clip capturing Bishop Conley's reaction to Cardinal Prevost's election garnered significant attention online, amassing approximately 1.9 million views across various platforms including Facebook and Instagram.

In another interview discussing Pope Leo XIV's potential impact on the Church, Bishop Conley expressed hope for unity and stability under his leadership: “My hope is that he’ll bring unity in the Church as much as he can… Drawing upon great teachings but bringing confidence.”

Bishop Conley emphasized vibrant aspects within U.S.-based Catholic communities such as parish life and education while expressing aspirations for similar energy to influence broader Church endeavors globally.