The election of Pope Leo XIV
by The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico
08/06/2025
When the world learned that the College of Cardinals had elected an American as the next pope, I was as surprised as anyone. Like many, I never imagined I would see a pope who was born in the United States in my lifetime. Yet as I reflect on the election of Pope Leo XIV, I find myself hopeful — not because of his nationality, but because of the kind of shepherd he is and the path I believe the Holy Spirit is charting for the Catholic Church through him. 
Though born in the United States, Pope Leo is not confined by that identity. His life and ministry have been shaped by international experiences, pastoral assignments in poor and struggling dioceses and a deep attentiveness to the sufferings of people. He brings with him the heart of a missionary and the voice of a pastor. He is someone who understands the trials of our times, including poverty, illness and conflict.
Even in the earliest moments of his papacy, it became clear that Pope Leo will be a pope who builds bridges.
The Holy Father's international background can have a very positive impact on how he continues to speak about unity in the face of war and advocate for those who are suffering around the world. When you consider the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as well as the situation between Israel and Palestine, it's clear that he is deeply aware of these global crises. He is working to bring people together around a common cause and urging us to believe in what is truly needed for our world to move toward peace with a stronger connection to our faith.
Here in the Diocese of Erie, we draw inspiration from the early witness of Pope Leo XIV. His call to be a people of peace, to serve the vulnerable and to rekindle the transformative power of our faith resonates deeply with our mission. In our parishes, schools and ministries across northwest Pennsylvania, we see the opportunity for this kind of renewal.
Too many in our region, like in so many places, have drifted from the practice of the faith. But we know that through prayer, the sacraments and genuine community, lives are changed. We are committed to helping people return home to the church and to experience once again the hope and strength found in the Gospel.
I have also been struck by the ways he connects with people, especially the young. From his youthful energy to his unexpected nods to U.S. sports teams, Pope Leo brings a personal, accessible presence that could draw many who feel distant from the church. His roots may offer a fresh way of engaging young people in the United States — and here in our diocese — who are longing for authenticity, direction and meaning.
The Holy Spirit continues to move through the people and parishes of our diocese. The recent ordination of Fathers Brandon Fiekles and Michael Scanga is a powerful sign that the Holy Spirit continues to call forth shepherds for our time. This spring, more than 600 young Catholics received the sacrament of confirmation, deepening the grace of their baptism. As we celebrate these new priests and committed disciples, we are reminded of the vitality of the church in our diocese and the enduring hope found in answering God’s call.
I find great hope in this moment. Not because of media headlines or historical firsts, but because I believe the cardinals elected a pastor, and I am certain it was the working of the Holy Spirit that moved them in that direction.
As we journey through the Jubilee Year of Hope, may we, the people of the Diocese of Erie, open our hearts to the Holy Spirit and return with joyful resolve to the heart of our faith.
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