Sojourner #045: American Cardinal Elected Pope Leo XIV

“Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.” (Ephesians 2:20)

In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the 267th Pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement came on May 8, 2025, after a conclave of the College of Cardinals. Pope Leo XIV, an American prelate, spent much of his life in Peru as a missionary, making his election significant as the first American Pope in history.

In his first speech from St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV spoke of God’s love for all people and led the crowd in a "Hail Mary," invoking the Virgin Mary’s intercession. This marks a continuation of the long-standing Catholic tradition of turning to Mary for grace, an essential part of Roman Catholic devotion.

As the Roman Catholic Church celebrates the election of a new pontiff, it is important to remember the foundation of our faith. While the election of a new Pope is a monumental event in the life of the Roman Catholic Church, we are reminded that the hope of salvation is not found in any papal office or institution, but in Jesus Christ alone.

Jesus Christ is the true foundation of the Church. It is upon Him - the Cornerstone - that the Church is built (Ephesians 2:20). He alone holds the authority to forgive sins and grant eternal life (John 14:6). No earthly office, no matter how esteemed, can replace the perfect work of Christ.

While we respect the tradition, beauty, and history of the Roman Catholic Church, we are reminded that salvation is not found in any sacrament, tradition, or papal succession, but in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone. “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5).

The election of Pope Leo XIV reminds us of the importance of spiritual leadership, but it also calls us to reflect on the sufficiency of Christ for our salvation. Our hope does not rest in any institution, but in the finished work of Christ - His life, death, and resurrection (Romans 5:8-10).

As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, we encourage all believers to pray for him as he takes on the weighty responsibility of leading the Roman Catholic Church. May God grant him wisdom and grace as he seeks to serve the faithful.

Though the Roman Catholic Church enters a new chapter, let us remember that our true hope is found in Christ alone. We congratulate Pope Leo XIV and ask that you join us in praying for him as he steps into this new role of leadership. May God guide him in his service to the Church, and may we all be reminded of the central truth of the Gospel - the salvation of sinners is found only in Jesus Christ.

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