Chiz Escudero, may malalim na saloobin ukol sa bagong Santo Papa

- Senate President Chiz Escudero expressed his support and prayers for Pope Leo XIV following his election as the 267th pope

- He described the new pope as a beacon of hope and a moral compass in a world facing conflict and uncertainty

- Escudero emphasized the pope’s role in promoting peace, justice, inclusivity, and compassion for the poor and marginalized

- The politician ended his message by praying for Pope Leo XIV’s success as both spiritual leader and global statesman

Senate President Chiz Escudero joined millions of Catholics around the world in welcoming the election of the new head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Escudero offered prayers of “gratitude and thanksgiving” for the new pontiff and described his ascension as a symbol of renewed faith and global unity.

“I join the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide in a prayer of gratitude and thanksgiving for the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new Vicar of Christ, Bishop of Rome, head of state of the Vatican, and shepherd of the Roman Catholic Church,” Escudero wrote.

He emphasized that the historic election of the 267th pope “marks a new chapter for the Church, offering hope and optimism to many,” especially at a time when the world is facing numerous challenges.

“For Catholics across the globe, it is an opportunity to reaffirm and rekindle a faith tested by challenges and uncertainties,” he said. “As the Philippines, the only Christian nation in Asia, continues to stand firm in its faith, I pray that His Holiness Pope Leo XIV may inspire and lead us as we navigate the challenges that we face as a nation.”

Escudero praised Pope Leo XIV’s potential role not just as a spiritual leader, but as a unifying global voice.

“Beyond his role as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, the Pope serves as a moral compass in a rapidly changing world—advocating for peace, justice, and compassion. As head of state of the Vatican, he is a powerful voice in international affairs, fostering dialogue among nations and promoting humanitarian efforts.”

“The new Pope represents a beacon of hope, not only for Christendom but for all of humanity, as we strive to build a world where peace prevails, wars cease, kindness flourishes, and hatred dissipates,” he added.

Escudero also expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV will help mend divisions in today’s fractured societies and stand for the marginalized.

“In a time when societies are fractured by discord and nations grapple with hostility, we look to him to help mend these divisions by championing the beauty of diversity,” he wrote. “Where minorities face alienation due to intolerance, we pray that he will stand as a powerful voice for inclusivity.”

“Where the poor are further marginalized, we will follow his lead in halting the erosion of opportunities and ensuring justice for all,” Escudero continued.

The Senate President ended his message with a prayer for strength and protection for the new pontiff as he begins his leadership.

“As wars rage and poverty looms, never in the point of our history has the collective yearning for a better world—shared by people of all faiths, creeds, and colors—been more urgent. We wish him success in the challenges ahead, both as the shepherd of his flock and as a statesman for all humanity. May God watch over and protect Pope Leo XIV. Mabuhay ang bagong Santo Papa!”

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, made history as the first American to be elected to the papacy. Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, he entered religious life early and became a member of the Augustinian Order. He was ordained a priest in 1982 and served in various capacities, including as a missionary in Peru, where he gained deep pastoral experience and a reputation for humility, compassion, and strong leadership.

As reported earlier, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American pope in history. He is also the first Augustinian to become pope and was previously head of the Vatican’s Congregation for Bishops. In his first address, he emphasized unity, peace, and walking together as members of the Church. His election followed Pope Francis’ death and was announced after white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel.

In another report, U.S. Pres. Donald Trump took to social media and congratulated Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost becoming the first American to be elected pope. He called the moment a “Great Honor for our Country,” underscoring national pride in the achievement. Trump expressed his eagerness to meet Pope Leo XIV, describing the future encounter as “very meaningful”.

Source: KAMI.com.gh