With our fellow Catholics, and so many others, across the world we in the Diocese of Motherwell thank God for the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. It is great news that Cardinal Prevost was chosen so quickly by his fellow Cardinals and there is reassurance that they have placed this confidence in his abilities to lead the Church in the great mission of preaching Christ, and upholding and strengthening our communion as the Body of Christ, the People of God. We trust that his choice has been inspired by the Holy Spirit and his actions will always be guided by the same Holy Spirit.

May God bless Pope Leo, and may he be sustained by the prayers of all the faithful. We commend his ministry as the Successor of St Peter to the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, and to that of all the Saints.

We will celebrate a Diocesan Mass in Thanksgiving for the Election of Pope Leo XIV in Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral, Motherwell, on Monday 26th May at 7pm. All are most welcome to attend.

+Joseph Toal