Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond recently offered reflections following the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope The election, which took place May 8, brought Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, to the papacy as the 267th pope.

Knestout celebrated Mass on Friday, May 9, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond, where he and others prayed for Leo and the future of the Church.

“Along with the faithful of the Diocese of Richmond, I rejoice in thanksgiving at the announcement of our new pontiff, Pope Leo XIV,” Knestout said. “Like many, my initial reaction was one of joyful astonishment.”

In his first remarks as pope, Leo said, “Peace Shepherd who gave His life for the flock of God. I, too, would like this greeting of peace to enter your hearts, to reach your families and all people, wherever they are, and all the peoples and all the earth: Peace be with you.”

As the Church observes the Jubilee Year of Hope, Knestout noted the significance of the pope’s message in a time of global conflict and uncertainty.

“In a world full of conflict and anxieties which cause many to despair, the election of a new pope whose first words bestow the peace of Christ on the world is an occasion for renewed hope,” Knestout said.

The bishop also urged the faithful to pray for Leo’s leadership, asking for the guidance of the Holy Spirit as the pope begins his tenure.