Reflection on the election of Pope Leo XIV by Sr Angela Reed, Mercy Global Action

With the election of Pope Leo XIV, we find ourselves once again at a pivotal moment in the life of the Church. I believe his election is an invitation to all—Catholics and non-Catholics alike—to embrace the spirit of renewal so powerfully embodied by Pope Francis. With the unique gifts and insights he brings, Pope Leo XIV is well-positioned to continue the transformative work of his predecessor. More than that, he now has the opportunity to leave his own mark on the Universal Church.

Call for Peace

Like Francis, Pope Leo brings with him the perspective of the Global South. Having ministered in Peru for a significant time and holding both U.S. and Peruvian citizenship, he embodies a truly global identity. His opening call for peace is especially poignant. In a world increasingly fractured by conflict and instability, his message is timely and deeply needed. The voice of the Vatican must continue to be one that calls the world to peace.

Rapid Advancement of Artificial Intelligence

Pope Leo will undoubtedly face many challenges. The current global landscape - social, political, and economic - poses complex questions that demand inclusive and Gospel-centered responses. Among the unique issues of our time is the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. With both his academic background and grassroots pastoral experience, Pope Leo is well-equipped to address both the promises and ethical concerns surrounding AI.

Synodality and Role of Women

I hope that Pope Leo will also continue the important conversation around synodality, especially as it relates to the role of women in the Church. Pope Francis made historic strides in promoting women to positions of leadership; I would urge Pope Leo to go further - entrusting women with greater responsibilities and openly affirming that, by virtue of their baptism, they are equally called to minister within the Church.

Pilgrims of Hope in the Jubilee Year

In this Jubilee Year, I trust that Pope Leo will remain faithful to Pope Francis call to be "pilgrims of hope." His formation as an Augustinian and his experience among the poor suggest a deep-rooted commitment to solidarity and compassion with those on the periphery.

Global Vision

Although American-born, Pope Leo clearly has a global vision. His fluency in multiple languages not only reflects intellectual depth but also a desire to engage with people across cultures in their native tongues. I believe this makes for more personal encounters. 

Gospel in Action

Much has been said about the Church’s need to reach the younger generation, and rightly so. In my own experience with young people - particularly those in Catholic schools - they are searching for a faith that is lived and visible. They want to see the Gospel in action. Pope Leo’s emphasis on Catholic Social Teaching, often overshadowed by more institutional concerns, is a hopeful sign. His influence within the United Nations context may help elevate the Church’s voice on global issues such as human rights and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Church as a prophetic voice for the world

The Church has gained tremendous momentum under the leadership of Pope Francis. I am confident that Pope Leo XIV, with his background and vision, will continue to build on this momentum, ensuring that the Church remains a prophetic voice in a time of global uncertainty. As we approach the UN’s Second World Social Summit later this year, I look forward to the contribution Pope Leo's messaging will bring to that important forum.

As a global advocate on behalf of the Mercy World, I feel energised and hopeful that Pope Leo will be an ally and that like Francis, he will bring his own lens to the Gospel  message of peace and justice. 

Sr Angela Reed rsm PhD, Head of Mercy Global Action