Australian Catholics are welcoming the elevation of American Robert Prevost to the papacy, stating that he will "be his own person" in this position.
Cardinal Prevost will adopt the title of Pope Leo XIV and becomes both the first American and the first native English speaker to ascend to the leadership of the faith.
The Brisbane Archbishop, Mark Coleridge, mentioned that he was greatly impressed from their past encounters and consistently viewed the Chicago-born individual as having a "fair shot" at becoming Pope.
"I was taken aback when I rose before dawn upon hearing about his election as Pope Leo XIV; however, I must admit I felt elated too," he mentioned.
Archbishop Coleridge mentioned that even though there was a quick ascent, Pope Leo didn’t rush into decisions; he possessed a serene demeanor that would be beneficial for his new position.
"I found him to be someone who... remained calm under pressure, excelled at navigating through dense traffic... he will chart his own path," he stated.
Melbourne Archbishop Peter Andrew Comensoli had likewise encountered Pope Leo multiple occasions, noting that he was an attentive listener with extensive experience and profound depths of faith.
"Evidently, the cardinals had confidence in their choice of Cardinal Prevost," Archbishop Comensoli said to vtrik.
The good news is here. We now have our head pastor, and everyone can anticipate gaining an understanding of him as he starts his service.
The "missionary spirit" of the Chicago native would serve him well, according to Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher.
"Just like his predecessor Pope Francis, who was known for his focus on humility and communal values as a member of a religious order, Pope Leo XIV will also introduce these principles to the Church," he stated.
The emotional highlight of the Holy Father’s inaugural speech to the global audience was his peaceful salutation, underscoring the fundamental message of the gospels—that God’s love for each one of us knows no bounds or prerequisites.
Leo dedicated decades of his life to serving as a missionary in Peru prior to being chosen by Pope Francis to head the Vatican's bishop appointment committee.
Archbishop Fisher, together with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has extended an invitation to Leo for the International Eucharistic Congress, which will take place in Sydney in 2028.
Mr Albanese stated that the appointment filled Catholics everywhere with joy and hope.
"Let the pontificate of Pope Leo promote the cause of peace and social equity for all mankind," he stated.
The president of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe, extended the Catholic Church in Australia's sincere congratulations.
He mentioned that Cardinal Prevost carried into his newest position as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops a demeanor marked by accessibility and a readiness to hear others, qualities likely honed during his extensive tenure as an Augustinian missionary in Peru.
The executive director of Catholic Social Services Australia, Jerry Nockles, stated that Pope Leo’s appointment was particularly timely as the globe sought empathetic leadership rooted in Gospel principles of fairness, respect, and support for those who are marginalized during this crucial period.
Pope Leo’s selection serves as a symbol of hope and a strong indication that the Church steadfastly supports peace and stands alongside those at the periphery,” stated Dr Nockles.
The only Australian delegate at the conclave in Rome was Cardinal Mykola Bychok.
Archbishop Costelloe and Sales Bishop Greg Bennett have signaled their intention to head to Rome for the installation, acting as representatives of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference and the broader Church in Australia.
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