Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark has expressed his thoughts and prayers following the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, as the new leader of the Catholic Church. Cardinal Tobin reflected on the recent period of mourning for Pope Francis and the subsequent conclave that led to the election of Pope Leo XIV.

Cardinal Tobin described the experience as an emotional journey from grief to hope, drawing inspiration from Pope Francis's words: “Thanks to Christ — crucified and risen from the dead — hope does not disappoint!” He emphasized that this hope empowered him to fulfill his role in electing a new pope with confidence in divine guidance.

Upon Pope Leo XIV's acceptance of his new role, Cardinal Tobin conveyed joy and pledged support on behalf of northern New Jersey’s faithful. “We welcome him wholeheartedly and pledge our love and prayerful support,” he stated.

Pope Leo XIV, originally from Chicago, was elected on May 8, 2025. The announcement was made by French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti at St. Peter’s Basilica, following a traditional smoke signal indicating a successful election. The newly elected pope is noted for his dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru and has served extensively in Latin America.

As prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops under Pope Francis, he played a significant role in shaping episcopal leadership globally. His leadership style is marked by inclusivity and pastoral closeness, aligning with Pope Francis's vision for church governance.

In his first public blessing as pope, Leo XIV expressed a message of peace and unity, encouraging dialogue and bridge-building among peoples worldwide. He thanked those who supported him throughout his ecclesiastical journey, including his former diocese in Chiclayo, Peru.

The new pope holds degrees in mathematics and theology and speaks multiple languages including English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, Latin, and German.

Cardinal Tobin urged prayers for Pope Leo XIV using words from the Roman missal: “May he be for your people a visible source and foundation of unity in faith.”