Statement from Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz on the Election of Pope Leo XIV

​Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz and the Diocese of Jackson rejoice in the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as our new Holy Father Pope Leo XIV. His opening words reflect a deeply pastoral leader who wants to walk among his flock and lead them and the Church into building a future filled with bridges to cross in joy and hope. 
 
We are delighted that he is a son of Chicago and the Americas, who as an Augustinian priest has served in the missions of Peru. Although most of his ministerial life has been outside the United States, this is a historic moment for the pope to be an American making him the second consecutive pope from the “New World.” 
 
Recognizing the gift of apostolic succession, we look forward in hope to Pope Leo’s leadership and guidance in leading our church in continuing to spread the joy of the Gospel message of Jesus Christ and being a strong voice for justice and mercy in our troubled world, especially for those on the margins. 
 
We ask that all people of faith and good will join us in praying for him in his new and profound responsibilities of being pastor and chief shepherd of the Catholic Church as well as being a strong moral voice of faith, hope, and love in our world.