The selection of Pope Leo XIV as the Successor of St. Peter is truly a work of the Holy Spirit, and a moment of tremendous grace and blessing! The Cardinal-electors have responded to divine inspiration and the devout prayers offered by the faithful throughout the world. The selection of the 267th Pope is a moment of great historic significance for the Catholic Church, and especially members of the Church in the United States and here in the Diocese of Venice, being the first Holy Father from the United States. As Catholics we are each being asked by this humble servant of the Lord to be peacemakers, and to prayerfully grow in our love for Christ and one another. Pope Leo XIV brings with him the strength and charism of St. Augustine, and the humanity and courage of Pope Leo XIII, who was an architect of many of the social teachings of the Church. I ask that all the faithful of the Diocese of Venice join me in prayer for Pope Leo XIV and the sacred ministry entrusted to him. May God bless and guide Pope Leo XIV, the “servant of servants.”