May God bless our new Holy Father

The Election of Pope Leo XIV The Syro-Malabar Church in Australia joins the universal Church in giving thanks to God for the election of our
new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. A native of Chicago and also a Peruvian citizen, Pope Leo XIV has long exemplified the missionary spirit of the Church. He spent many years in Peru-first as a missionary and later as Archbishop-where he became known for his pastoral zeal and humility. A member of the Order of St. Augustine, he was twice elected Prior General
of the Augustinians, bringing with him a deep commitment to simplicity, service, and community life. His Holiness was appointed Cardinal by the late Pope Francis and served as Prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops. A canon lawyer himself, the Holy Father brings profound knowledge of Church law and
governance, as well as a heart formed by lived missionary experience.
In his first address from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor:
‘We still hear in our ears the weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis who blessed us.” To the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square and watching around the world, he offered a message of unity and
hope: “United and hand in hand with God, let us advance together.” The Syro-Malabar faithful across Australia join in prayer for Pope Leo XIV as he begins his pontificate. May the
Holy Spirit guide him in wisdom and strength as he leads the Church into a new chapter of faith and renewal.
May God bless our new Holy Father.
Bishop John Panamthottathil CMI
Eparchial Bishop,
Syro-Malabar Eparchy of St Thomas the Apostle, Melbourne