TACLOBAN CITY — Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre joined Catholics worldwide in celebrating the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
“We join the billions of Catholics around the world in thanking God for the election of Pope Leo XIV,” Acidre said, following the Vatican’s announcement of the new pontiff.
“Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been chosen to carry the heavy but holy burden once borne by Peter,” he added. “Just as our Lord told Peter to ‘strengthen your brothers,’ we now look to Pope Leo XIV to guide, inspire, and confirm us in the faith.”
Acidre also expressed deep gratitude for the spiritual leadership of Pope Francis, honoring his legacy of compassion and humility. “We are grateful for the life and witness of Pope Francis—who taught us to love more, hope more, and serve more deeply,” he said.
As the Church enters a new chapter, Acidre called on the faithful to support the new pope through prayer. “We now pray for our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV,” he said. “May the Lord bless him with wisdom, courage, and compassion as he leads the Church in these challenging times.”
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
