Catholics gather for special Mass in Brooklyn following Pope Leo XIV election
BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) — A wave of history and hope swept through Downtown Brooklyn as hundreds of faithful filled the Cathedral Basilica of St. James on Sunday morning.
The occasion: a special Mass celebrated by Bishop Robert Brennan, just days after the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American ever chosen to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
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Hymns echoed through the cathedral's historic walls, setting a reverent tone for the service. Bishop Brennan, presiding over the congregation, reflected on the significance of this unprecedented moment for the global Catholic community.
Preaching from the Book of Revelation 7, Bishop Brennan reminded worshippers of God's enduring promise: 'A part of that promise is that God will shepherd them, take them by the hand, lead them, wipe the tears from their eyes. Pope Leo used that same image in his first message to the world.'
The Mass, held on Good Shepherd Sunday, was especially poignant as prayers were offered for Pope Leo XIV as he began his papacy. Bishop Brennan praised the new pope's missionary spirit and his American roots: 'I was thrilled to hear that he has roots in the United States, but more importantly, he's a missionary,' says Brennan.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago, was elected on May 8, 2025, becoming the first U.S.-born pontiff in the Church's history. His election has been met with excitement and optimism both in the United States and around the world.
Many parishioners at the Cathedral Basilica of St. James expressed hope for the future of the Church under Pope Leo XIV.
Luiza Nunes, a church member, shared, 'Every single day it's about our acts, and we're not saints, but it's a part of our choices every day. From what I read so far, I think he will do great for the community as well and continue to do the service that Pope Francis was doing.'
More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State
Candida Perez added, 'He's one of the first popes being American, and we expect him to do the right thing.'
Bishop Brennan's homily echoed this spirit of unity and faith, emphasizing the new pope's message: 'He's got that message of unity, but on the reliance on God.'
The Diocese of Brooklyn will continue its celebrations with a special Mass of Thanksgiving to honor the installation of Pope Leo XIV. The installation ceremony is scheduled for Monday, May 19th.
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