Charlotte Catholics react to historical pontiff pick
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — The new leader of the Catholic church will continue spreading a message of peace and love as Pope Francis did.
Charlotte Catholics are excited not only for the historic selection of the first American pontiff, but also for the future of the church.
Charlotte bishop reflects on meeting with Pope Leo XIV
It took two days for 133 eligible cardinals to choose Robert Prevost as the next pope. He's the first American to be elected in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic church.
In his first message, he's already proving to be a leader for all, speaking to Vatican City followers in several languages.
'I'm very surprised. I never would have dreamt that we would see a Pope born in the united states in my lifetime. I thought eventually it would happen, but I have to admit sitting there watching him walk out onto the loggia, I was very shocked,' said Bishop Michael Martin of the Charlotte Diocese.
Local Charlotte Catholics were also shocked, but Joseph Yesudas was excited after the announcement.
'Pope Francis got us through the transition, through love and mercy, and now he will see us through the next phase,' Yesudas said.
In his first speech Thursday, Pope Leo XIV said: 'Help us, too, and help each other to build bridges, with dialogue, with meetings, uniting us all to be one people, always in peace. Thank you, Pope Francis!'
Yesudas believes the timing of the selection is important as faith across the nation is growing. He says Lope Leo XIV's key focus is sending the message that everyone is united in Christ.
'I think that's the importance of bringing a person who has understanding of the Canon laws, which is the laws that direct Catholics administratively, as well as when you think about somebody who can speak Latin, who can speak Italian, who can speak Spanish, who served in South America and Peru. And of course, being born in Chicago, he can bring everyone together. And he's also a leader among his cardinals. So, if you look more into his bio, the timing is perfect,' Yesudas said.
St. Matthew Church in Charlotte's Ballantyne neighborhood will hold a celebratory mass for Pope Leo Friday night at 7 p.m.
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