Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin expressed a mix of emotions following the recent papal conclave, where Cardinal Robert F. Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025. In a statement, Cardinal Tobin reflected on the period of mourning after the death of Pope Francis and his subsequent participation in the conclave.

He recalled feeling disoriented by Pope Francis's passing but found solace in the late pope's Easter message about hope being grounded in Jesus's resurrection. "Thanks to Christ crucified and risen, hope does not disappoint," said Pope Francis.

Cardinal Tobin emphasized that this hope allowed him to embrace his responsibilities with confidence during the conclave. He described feelings of joy when Pope Leo XIV accepted his role as successor to Saint Peter, pledging support from New Jersey residents.

Pope Leo XIV is notable for being the first North American pope and has dual citizenship in the United States and Peru. Before his election, he served as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops under Pope Francis. His background includes extensive missionary work in Peru and leadership roles within religious communities.

In an interview before becoming pope, then-Cardinal Prevost discussed leadership qualities necessary for bishops, emphasizing service over authority. As head of the dicastery, he played a crucial role in bishop appointments worldwide.

During his first blessing "Urbi et Orbi," Pope Leo XIV conveyed a message of peace inspired by Christ’s resurrection. He called for unity within the Church and encouraged building bridges through dialogue and love.

Pope Leo XIV holds degrees from Villanova University and Pontifical institutions in Rome and speaks multiple languages including English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese while also reading Latin and German.