Statement from Holy Cross College President Dr. Marco J. Clark on the Election of Pope Leo XIV

 

Dear Holy Cross College Community,

With hearts full of prayer and hope, I join the universal Church in welcoming the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. The conclave of cardinals, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, has discerned a humble shepherd to lead us in this new chapter of faith and service.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is the first Pope born in the United States of America, in nearby Chicago.

One of the recurring themes when people talk about our new Pope is that he has the heart of a missionary. At Holy Cross, we prepare our students to have the competency to see and the courage to act as global citizens.

Pope Leo XIV spoke about the need to be missionaries in this world and to build bridges through dialogue, just as his predecessor Pope Francis emphasized. The world needs more benevolence.

The Congregation of Holy Cross has invited all ministries to join in celebrating a landmark spiritual initiative: the Year of Mission, which began on April 28. This global observance for the Congregation, themed “Hope Beyond Borders,” seeks to renew commitment to missionary zeal across cultures, communities, and continents.

Our new Pope is calling us to do the same. What a joyful vocation for us all to build God’s kingdom.

May this new papacy deepen our commitment to encounter, dialogue, and the service of others. May it embolden our students to be courageous witnesses of faith, reason, and compassion in a complex world. And may we, as a community rooted in the Cross, remain united in prayer with the Church around the world during this historic moment.

Ave Crux, Spes Unica,