For Immediate Release: May 8, 2025
Contact: Heather Cabral, hcabral@faithinaction.org, 202-550-6880
WASHINGTON—Leaders with Faith in Action are celebrating Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost’s election as pope just one day after the start of the cardinal conclave. The leaders with the largest faith-based grassroots organizing network expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV will continue Pope Francis’ legacy of bridge-building and care for the marginalized.
In a statement, Bishop Dwayne Royster, executive director of Faith in Action, said, “Pope Leo XIV has a long-standing reputation for protecting those most vulnerable. Faith in Action looks forward to continuing our work with the Vatican to do the same, not just here in the United States but around the world. In a moment, the world so desperately needs bridge-building and healing, we pray for Pope Leo XIV as he steps into his new role.”
Previously, Faith in Action sent a delegation to the Vatican in 2015 just ahead of Pope Francis’ first and only visit to the United States. Upon his arrival in the United States, Faith in Action hosted events for Vatican leaders in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., with Cardinal Peter Turkson and then Archbishop Joseph Tobin. In preparation, more than 170 parishes in 20 dioceses ran study groups to reflect on Pope Francis’ teaching and witness. Additionally, in September 2024, Faith in Action’s leaders were invited to the Vatican to meet with Pope Francis.
Joseph Fleming, director of federation engagement & support of Faith in Action, said: “We pray for Pope Leo XIV as he takes on this great responsibility. We look forward to working with the Vatican and USCCB as we support the Catholic community’s work to put feet to their faith in these challenging times.”
Catalina Morales, director of training for Faith in Action, said, “So many of us Catholics have been waiting with excitement. The announcement of Pope Leo XIV, the first pope from the United States, is exciting, especially at this moment. His commitment to protect those who suffer couldn’t be more timely, for women, and for the many immigrants who make up the Catholic church, not just in the United States but around the world.”
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