CAFOD director reflects on Pope Leo's first year in office

Pope Leo appears on the balcony of St Peter's

Source: CAFOD

CAFOD Director Dr Christine Allen, who was fortunate to be in St Peter's Square on 8th May last year, standing near the steps of the Basilica when Pope Leo appeared on the balcony, reflects on Pope Leo's first year in office.

She said: "Witnessing him emerge onto the balcony of St Peter's as the new Pope a year ago was a very moving experience. I remember the crowd's reaction, hearing him speak in Italian and then fluent Spanish, powerfully illustrating that the Pope is a leader for the whole world - regardless of nationality.

"I was fortunate to be standing next to a Nigerian priest who graciously translated the pope's words into English for a few of us nearby. That was another example of the Pope's message stretching beyond borders right there in the square, where tens of thousands of people from around the world had gathered."

Dr Christine Allen said: "Pope Leo's voice of peace is vital in a world so full of conflict. The pope's message of love has struck a chord with millions, in newsfeeds often overwhelmed by vitriol and hate. The Holy Father has consistently reminded world leaders of the need for dialogue instead of division. His words are a wake-up call for us all."

Reflecting on the Pope's first year, she said: "Pope Leo has travelled to Lebanon as well as countries in Africa, meeting those living out their faith in some of the most challenging contexts imaginable. In Lebanon, CAFOD partners are bringing hope to communities torn apart by conflict. At a time when many in Africa are living with the impact of war, unfair debt burdens, and inequality, Pope Leo's visit showed how we can 'walk together' as a global church. Over the last twelve months we have heard him repeatedly calling for ceasefires, an end to war, a return to dialogue, and working for peace. Pope Leo's first words from the balcony at St Peter's were, 'Peace be with all of you', and that's a message he has continued to share, following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Pope Francis."

LINK

CAFOD: https://cafod.org.uk/