Peter Obi Salutes New Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV

DDM NEWS

“I wholeheartedly congratulate His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, on his election as the Supreme Pontiff and spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.

“His emergence at this critical time in the life of the Church and the world is a profound blessing – one that reaffirms the enduring presence of divine guidance in our shared human journey.

“I commend the College of Cardinals for once again demonstrating the Church’s timeless wisdom through prayerful discernment, unity, and fidelity to her sacred traditions. Their decision reflects spiritual depth, attentive listening, and an unwavering openness to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

“To the faithful who joined in fervent prayer throughout the conclave, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Our collective petitions have not been in vain. We now celebrate the gift of a new shepherd to lead the flock with courage, love, and truth.

“The inaugural address of Pope Leo XIV was both reassuring and inspiring. It radiated humility, moral clarity, and a renewed call to justice, peace, and solidarity with the most vulnerable.

“In a world overwhelmed by division and despair, his words have rekindled hope in the hearts of millions.

“A member of the Order of Saint Augustine, Pope Leo XIV is a seasoned missionary, a respected canon lawyer, and the former Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. His decades of pastoral service, especially in Peru, and his global ecclesial experience are invaluable gifts to the Universal Church and the whole world.

“As a firm believer in moral leadership, I pray that his pontificate will be marked by deep spiritual renewal, courageous dialogue, unwavering service to humanity, and fidelity to the Gospel message.

“May God bless and guide Pope Leo XIV as he assumes the sacred responsibility of leading the Church through the complexities of our ever-changing world”, Obi noted.

Pope Leo XIV is the newly elected head of the Catholic Church, chosen by the College of Cardinals on May 8, 2025. Born Robert Francis Prevost, he’s an Augustinian friar from Chicago, Illinois, and a Villanova University alumnus. Here are some key facts about Pope Leo XIV.

Early Life And Education

Born in Chicago, Prevost joined the Order of St. Augustine in 1977 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Villanova University.

He later received a Master of Divinity from Catholic Theological Union and doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical College of St. Thomas Aquinas.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
Priest and Bishop: Ordained a priest in 1982, Prevost served in Peru, led the Augustinian seminary, and taught canon law. He was appointed bishop of Chiclayo in 2015 and served for eight years.

Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops: In January 2023, he was appointed prefect, overseeing the selection of new bishops and formation of dioceses.

Papacy: As Pope Leo XIV, he’s the first Pope from the United States and the first Augustinian friar to be elected pontiff.

He’s known for his humility, gentle spirit, prudence, and warmth.

Background: Villanova University, where Pope Leo XIV studied, is an Augustinian Catholic institution rooted in the values of truth, unity, and love, inspired by the teachings of St. Augustine.

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