WELCOME POPE LEO XIV

With hearts full of joy and gratitude, we welcome the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, chosen by the College of Cardinals under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

We invite you to light a candle — either at the National Shrine or in your own home — as a visible sign of your prayers and support for our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. Let this flame symbolize your hope, your faith, and your unity with the universal Church as we give thanks for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in this sacred moment.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV — formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost — is the first American-born pope in the history of the Catholic Church. At age 69, he previously served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and as a missionary bishop in Peru. As the 267th successor of Saint Peter, Pope Leo XIV begins his ministry to shepherd the universal Church in faith and unity.

We give thanks to God for his “yes” to this extraordinary calling and invite all the faithful to join us in prayer for his pontificate.

Prayer for Pope Leo XIV

O God, who chose your servant
in succession to the Apostle Peter
as shepherd of the whole flock,
look favorably on the supplications of your people
and grant that, as Vicar of Christ on earth,
he may confirm his brethren
and that the whole Church
may be in communion with him
in the bond of unity, love and peace,
so that in you, the shepherd of souls,
all may know the truth and attain life eternal.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever

Excerpts from the English translation of The Roman Missal © 2010, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.

The suggested donation for one candle is $5.00. Thank you for your generous and prayerful support.

No offering is required for prayer. If you are unable to make a donation at this time, you may submit a prayer request through our Request a Prayer form.

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