The Bishop of the Superior Diocese reacts to the new pontiff

By WDIO

Cathedral of Christ the King Cathlolic Church, Superior. (WDIO)

Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected on Thursday, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first pope from the United States in the history of the Catholic Church. Catholics across the Northland are celebrating the announcement of the new head of the Catholic Church.

The Bishop of the Diocese of Superior, Most Rev. James Powers shared an official statement:

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
On behalf of myself, the priests, lay leaders, and parishioners of the Diocese of Superior, we join the Universal Church in heartfelt joy and gratitude for the gift of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV.
The inspiring journey of Pope Leo XIV, leaving Chicago to serve others in Peru, resonates deeply with our own call as missionary disciples here in northern Wisconsin. His dedication echoes the spirit of outreach and service that is central to our faith.
The choice of the name Leo recalls the legacy of great pontiff’s like St. Leo the Great, a true reformer, and Leo XIII, whose profound teachings on social justice continue to guide our commitment to peace and justice in our faith communities across the Diocese.
We hold in prayerful remembrance Pope Francis and now joyfully welcome Pope Leo XIV with renewed faith and commitment. As Catholics in the United States, we recognize the unique significance of witnessing the leadership of the first American Pope and pray for his guidance upon the Church and the world.
May God grant Pope Leo XIV a blessed pontificate.
Sincerely yours in the Lord,
Most Rev. James P. Powers
Bishop of Superior