Biography of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost 
The Diocese of Grand Rapids’ Office of Communications issues the following statement from Most Reverend David J. Walkowiak, bishop of Grand Rapids, on the election of Pope Leo XIV.
I join with the faithful around the world in celebrating the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. Today is a historic moment not only for our Universal Church, but particularly for the Church in the United States as we witness an American elected as the Successor of St. Peter for the first time. In a special way, we give thanks and count our blessings for a pope with deep ties to the Midwest.
I ask you to join me in extending heartfelt prayers for Pope Leo XIV as he assumes the Chair of Peter. May we work with him in being a “united Church searching all together for peace and justice, working together as women and men, faithful to Jesus Christ without fear, proclaiming Christ, to be missionaries, faithful to the gospel” (Pope Leo XIV, first address).
The Diocese of Grand Rapids serves more than 179,371 Catholics, 79 parishes and 31 schools in an 11-county area of West Michigan. For additional information visit our website grdiocese.org. Connect with the diocese on Facebook (Diocese of Grand Rapids) and Instagram (@GRDiocese).
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