Good Times Ahead: A Multitude of Leaders Wish Peace and Guidance to Pope Leo XIV
Grant tranquility and optimism, if you will.
Europe's influential figures have voiced their congratulations and hopes following the election of Pope Leo XIV. Here's a round-up of their heartfelt messages.
Steinmeier's Thoughtful Words
Germany's Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, on behalf of his country, send "heartfelt congratulations" to the new Pope. He highlighted the Historical responsibilities that the Pontificate of Leo XIV carries, especially amidst the world's challenges and conflicts. Steinmeier expressed his hope for the new Pope to bless Germany and the world with "strength, love, and prudence." [Indy1]
Merz's Warm Words
Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz extended his "very warm congratulations" to Pope Leo XIV and expressed his confidence that the Pope would guide his flock with wisdom and insight during these challenging times. [Indy2]
Von der Leyen's Optimistic Outlook
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen believes Pope Leo XIV's pontificate will be marked by "wisdom and strength," enabling him to inspire the world through his dedication to peace and dialogue. Meanwhile, von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa are optimistic about cooperating closely with the Holy See to tackle global challenges. [Indy3]
Macron's Emotional Response
Emmanuel Macron, France's President, described the election of Pope Leo XIV as a "historic moment" for the Catholic Church and its believers worldwide. Macron sent a message of fraternity, wishing Leo XIV a successful papacy that would bring peace and hope across the world. [Indy4]
Stetter-Karp's Takedown of the New Pope
Irme Stetter-Karp, President of the Central Committee of German Catholics, described the new Pope as "a man of the middle, politically savvy, internationally connected, and well-informed about the Catholic Church in Germany." [Indy5]
Bätzing's Balancing Act
Chairman of the Catholic German Bishops' Conference, Georg Bätzing, revealed the cardinals wanted continuity with Pope Francis but not a carbon copy. [Indy6]
Klöckner and Meloni's Shared Vision
Julia Klöckner, President of the Bundestag, expressed her conviction in Pope Leo XIV's ability to understand the demands of the modern world with a global perspective and extensive experience. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni echoed Klöckner's sentiments, stating Leo XIV's words from the balcony would be a "powerful call for peace, brotherhood, and responsibility." [Indy7]
Duda, Zelenskyy, and Putin's Support
Andrzej Duda, President of Poland, conveyed his deep appreciation for Leo XIV and hoped for a pontificate that strengthened dialogue and the defense of human rights. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his hope for continued support from the Vatican, especially during a crucial moment for Ukraine. Vladimir Putin, meanwhile, highlighted the ongoing cooperation between Russia and the Vatican, based on shared Christian values.
The Middle East's Response
Last but not least, Israel's President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed their warm wishes to the first American Pope, hoping for his success in promoting hope and reconciliation among all faiths. [Indy8]
Enrichment Data:
Specific Hopes and Expectations of European Leaders for Pope Leo XIV's Pontificate:
- Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission):
- She emphasized the shared commitment between the EU and the Vatican to human dignity and looked forward to working together for the common good.
- Von der Leyen wished for Pope Leo XIV to have a pontificate guided by "wisdom and strength" as he leads the Catholic community, inspiring the world through peace and dialogue.
- Friedrich Merz (Chancellor of Germany):
- Merz noted that through his role, Pope Leo XIV gives hope and guidance to millions of believers globally during difficult times.
- Frank-Walter Steinmeier (President of Germany):
- No specific comments or quotes from Frank-Walter Steinmeier have been mentioned in the provided search results regarding Pope Leo XIV's election.
- Emmanuel Macron (President of France):
- Macron described the election of Pope Leo XIV as a "historic moment" for the Catholic Church and its faithful, sending a message of fraternity to the pope and all Catholics.
- He hoped for the new papacy to be a bearer of peace and hope.
- Sources: [Indy1], [Indy2], [Indy3], [Indy4], [Indy5], [Indy6], [Indy7], [Indy8]
- The European Union, committed to policy-and-legislation aimed at addressing global challenges, expresses optimism about cooperating closely with Pope Leo XIV in this endeavor.
- Ursula von der Leyen, EU Commission President, hopes that Pope Leo XIV's pontificate will be guided by wisdom and strength, allowing him to inspire the world through his dedication to peace and dialogue.
- Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Germany's Federal President, wishes for the new Pope to restore strength, love, and prudence in people's lives, considering the historical responsibilities of Leo XIV's pontificate.
- Emmanuel Macron, France's President, believes that Pope Leo XIV's papacy will bring peace and hope across the world, making it a moment of togetherness for people of all faiths.
