Pope Leo XIV has urged journalists to be peacemakers, rejecting prejudice and anger in their reporting. On 12 May, he also called for the release of imprisoned journalists, reminding the world: “The suffering of these journalists challenges the conscience of nations… we must safeguard the precious gift of free speech and of the press.

Pope Leo XIV is the first American and first Augustinian to lead the Catholic Church. A naturalised Peruvian citizen and beloved Bishop, he’s known for walking through floods, launching lifesaving aid during COVID, and carrying Christ to the streets. His papacy is rooted in unity, mercy, and mission.

During Good Shepherd Sunday Mass, Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB reflected on the meaning of vocation and the courage it takes to say yes to God’s call. Speaking at St Mary’s Cathedral, he encouraged openness to vocations and highlighted the qualities of faith, love, and service, linking them to the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, whose own journey began with a simple “yes” to God.

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople said he hopes Pope Leo XIV will “be a dear brother and collaborator … for the rapprochement of our churches, for the unity of the whole Christian family, and for the benefit of all of humankind.”

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference (ACBC) has welcomed the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. ACBC President, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, offered heartfelt congratulations, assuring the new pope of the Church in Australia’s prayers, loyalty, and joyful anticipation of his spiritual leadership. He expressed hope that the pontificate will be marked by peace, unity, and a deepening of the Gospel message worldwide.

Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, a Chicago-born missionary with decades of service in Peru, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, the first North American pope. Known for his humility, global outlook, and deep compassion, he follows in the footsteps of Pope Francis with a vision of a Church that is inclusive, peace-seeking, and close to the poor.

On 7–8 May 2025, 133 cardinal electors convened in the Sistine Chapel for a historic conclave to elect the 267th pope. Following sacred rites and solemn prayers, black smoke on the first day signalled no decision, but by the second evening, white smoke and ringing bells announced: Habemus Papam — we have a pope.