Australian Catholics and politicians have welcomed the appointment of the new pope, Leo XIV, expressing hopes that he will continue to emphasize peace and social justice, as his predecessor did. Archbishop Timothy Costelloe, the president of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, on behalf of the Roman Catholic Church in Australia. The Catholic Church in Australia has promised its prayers, loyalty, and joyful anticipation of Pope Leo XIV’s spiritual leadership, hoping for a pontificate marked by peace, unity, and a deepening of the Gospel message globally.
Costelloe acknowledged the new pope’s approachable and listening demeanor, evident in his previous roles as the prefect of the dicastery for bishops and as an Augustinian missionary in Peru. Catholic Social Services Australia has noted the profound significance of the pope’s choice of name, linking it to Pope Leo XIII’s legacy of commitment to human dignity and social justice. The organization’s executive director, Dr. Jerry Nockles, highlighted the world’s need for compassionate leadership and the pope’s election as a beacon of hope in addressing social challenges like inequality, violence, and division.
Brother Mark O’Connor, the head of communications for the Catholic archdiocese of Parramatta, who has met the new pope, described him as a humble and gentle leader, similar in vision but more low-key in style compared to Pope Francis. O’Connor expects the new pope to effectively continue the church’s reform and emphasized the significance of the pope’s first words and his naming choice, linking it to Pope Leo XIII’s stance on social justice.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Health Minister Mark Butler have offered their congratulations, with Butler noting the joy and hope the appointment brings to Catholics worldwide. The Australian Catholic University has expressed renewed hope and guidance, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to dialogue, human rights, and a more compassionate world. The Australian embassy to the Holy See, which overlooks the Sistine Chapel chimney, has also celebrated the appointment with a “conclave watch” event, writing “Habemus Papam!” (We have a new pope) on social media.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/09/australian-catholics-welcome-pope-leo-xiv
