Though I am not Catholic, I hold great respect for the Catholic Church, its leadership, traditions, and the profound contributions of its saints such as Mother Theresa. Recently, I found myself compelled to pray for the selection of the new pope due to the critical role the papacy plays globally.
On Thursday, American Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected pontiff, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. As Forbes reported, Pope Leo didn’t offer any explanation for his name choice in his first address Thursday, but many have speculated it’s likely tied to Pope Leo XIII’s legacy of championing the working class, with Rev. Art Purcaro, a friend of Pope Leo XIV, pointing to Leo XIII’s commitment to “social thought” and telling CNN he believes the name choice means Leo XIV “wants to continue the role that Pope Francis” played in promoting social justice.
The pope’s interpretation and application of Catholic social teaching significantly influence contemporary global challenges, given the Church’s substantial political presence and over 1.4 billion adherents worldwide. A powerful historical example is Pope John Paul II’s influential role in supporting the Solidarity movement, notably contributing to Poland’s liberation from communism.
In today’s digital age, the term “influencer” typically denotes individuals shaping opinions and trends via social media platforms. By this definition, the pope is undoubtedly one of the world’s most significant influencers. As of 2023, the global Catholic population surpassed 1.4 billion people, constituting nearly half of all Christians worldwide. The late Pope Francis had amassed over 53 million followers on X and nearly 10 million additional followers on Instagram, making his digital influence extensive and profound.
Given this immense reach, electing a new pope is not merely a matter of internal Church governance but a decision with substantial global implications. Therefore, it is essential for all Christians — Catholic and non-Catholic alike — to pray earnestly for Pope Leo’s reign, asking God to grant him wisdom, discernment, and integrity.
Pope Leo now serves as an influential moral authority whose teachings will shape ethical discussions worldwide, impacting policies and humanitarian efforts beyond religious boundaries.
As a prominent religious figure, Pope Leo’s dedication to interfaith dialogue will foster mutual understanding, peace, and cooperation among diverse faith communities, thus reducing global religious tensions.
Historically, popes have significantly influenced global responses to natural disasters, poverty, injustice, and human rights violations, advocating on behalf of marginalized populations and shaping international conversations on equity and compassion.
A pope committed to peace and reconciliation can facilitate diplomatic dialogues, mediate conflicts, and foster international cooperation, contributing tangibly to global stability and harmony.
Historically, popes have wielded significant influence.
Pope John XXIII convened the Second Vatican Council which modernized the Catholic Church, promoted human rights, dignity, and enhanced dialogue with other religions.
Pope John Paul II supported liberation movements against communism, and was crucial in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, notably supporting Poland’s fight for freedom.
Pope Francis was an advocate for the environment, refugees, and poverty alleviation. He influenced international policies on environmental responsibility, economic justice, and humanitarian aid.
Given the profound global influence that the pope can exert, it is prudent and spiritually responsible for Christians across all denominations to pray earnestly for wise leadership as Pope Leo XVIV begins his reign.
For some Christians, praying for the pope may be challenging due to deeply held anti-Catholic sentiments — resulting in hostility, discrimination, or prejudice against Catholics, their beliefs, practices, or the Catholic Church itself, often based on misunderstandings or misrepresentations. Such discrimination is neither Biblical nor aligned with Christian principles. Christians are called to love and respect all people, regardless of ethnicity, gender, identity, or religious beliefs.
Therefore, as Christians committed to peace, justice, and mutual respect, we should set aside biases and unite in prayer, supporting Pope Leo spiritually as he undertakes his significant global role. This unified prayerful approach not only strengthens the Catholic Church but fosters greater global harmony, embodying the broader Christian commitment to love, respect, and reconciliation.
Ed Gaskin is Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets and founder of Sunday Celebrations