Europe's Welcomes to Pope Leo XIV: A Future of Peace and Compassion
"May it bring tranquility and optimism"
Leaders across Europe have extended their congratulations to the newly-elected Pope Leo XIV, expressed optimism for his time in office, and wished for a future filled with peace and guidance.
German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier led the way, sending a heartfelt message that resonated with citizens, especially Catholics, holding high expectations for his pontificate. Steinmeier recognized that, as the successor of Peter, Leo XIV bears a significant spiritual and moral responsibility during challenging times worldwide. He expressed hope that his United States background would help him address concerns and wishes from people everywhere [1].
Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz followed suit, offering a warm welcome to the new Pope. Recognizing the burdens and expectations that come with his office, Merz stressed the importance of Leo XIV as an anchor for justice and reconciliation. Germans view his potential pontificate with confidence and a positive outlook [2].
European Minister Johann Wadephul sees Leo XIV as a voice for the global Christian community. He urged fellow Christians to stand united and seek reconciliation in today's complex world situation [3].
The German Bishops' Conference chairman, Georg Bätzing, stated that the cardinals targeted continuity with Pope Francis rather than an exact replica. Irme Stetter-Karp, President of the Central Committee of German Catholics, saw Leo XIV as a man of the middle who is politically astute, internationally connected, and thoroughly informed about the Catholic Church in Germany [3].
The President of the Bundestag, Julia Klöckner, believes that Leo XIV will bring a deep understanding of the demands of modern times to his office, thanks to his world-facing perspective and extensive international experience. As a member of the Augustinian order, shaped by humility, service, and community, she expects him to serve as a bridge within the Church [2].
Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni echoed sentiments about Leo XIV's words from St. Peter's Basilica being a powerful call for peace, brotherhood, and accountability. The European Union, represented by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President António Costa, feels inspired by Pope Leo XIV's commitment to peace, humanity, and dialogue [4].
French President Emmanuel Macron described this moment as historic for the Catholic Church and its faithful followers [4]. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a significant moment, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez wished for the pope's pontificate to bolster dialogue and defend human rights worldwide [5].
Polish President Andrzej Duda relayed heartfelt congratulations to Pope Leo XIV and the Polish people, expressing hope for strengthening relations with the Vatican founded upon shared values and commitment to peace [5].
Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda hopes Pope Leo XIV guides the Church with faith, hope, and love [5]. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sees value in the Vatican’s consistent stance upholding international law, condemning Russian aggression, and safeguarding innocent civilians. He hopes the Vatican will continue to offer moral and spiritual support as Ukraine works towards peace and justice [5].
Russian President Vladimir Putin is confident that the dialogue between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop and be anchored in the religious values that unite both nations. Israel's President Isaac Herzog prays for the immediate and safe return of hostages in the Gaza Strip and a new era of peace across the world [6]. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes Pope Leo XIV will foster hope and reconciliation among all faiths [5].
Source: ntv.de, jwu/dpa
- Vatican
- Frank-Walter Steinmeier
- Johann Wadephul
- Friedrich Merz
- Ursula von der Leyen
- Emmanuel Macron
- Andrzej Duda
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy
- Vladimir Putin
- Isaac Herzog
- Benjamin Netanyahu
- The European Union, represented by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President António Costa, feels inspired by Pope Leo XIV's commitment to peace, humanity, and dialogue, mirroring the Paris Agreement's goals of mitigating climate change and fostering global cohesion.
- Germany's Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in his congratulatory message to Pope Leo XIV, emphasized the importance of reconciliation, likening the pope's role to an anchor for justice and reconciliation in a challenging global landscape.
- The General News reports that European Minister Johann Wadephul views Pope Leo XIV as a voice for the global Christian community, urging fellow Christians to unite and seek reconciliation in today's complex world situation, reminiscent of the spirit of reconciliation encouraged in politics.
- In a nod to the Pope's background, German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed hope that Leo XIV's United States background would help him address concerns and wishes from people everywhere, just as the European Union is committed to implementing the Paris Agreement and fostering united global action.
