The new pope

I was on a mission yesterday to find several individuals who were fortunate enough to have met Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV. His connections to the Augustinians are an advantage to the Cebuanos, who have a strong affinity with this religious order. All this time, we have been blessed to have hallways and altars graced by the presence of the new pope himself. In fact, he has visited Cebu five times during his tenure as an official in the Augustinian order. If we were to let former Basilica Minore del Santo Niño Rector, Reverend Father Jonas Mejares, speak, he would say the Philippines is close to the pope’s heart.

He is a man of great caliber: the first American and Augustinian who is also a canon lawyer. He can speak several languages, with the lingua franca being his most fluent and native tongue. In the past, he has championed several movements that were instrumental in the Augustinians' mission. His portfolio is well-rounded --not only as a man of faith but also as a capable administrator. While we do not know what goes on inside the conclave, the voting members may have been moved by the Holy Spirit to recognize that he is the best fit for a responsibility so great.

Pope Leo has big shoes to fill, as the former pope left a lasting impression on both the congregation and those outside the faith. His firm stance on inclusivity and care for the poor was evident in his actions. It was clear that his heart leaned more toward the people than the administrative side of the Church. As this new pope takes the helm, many are hopeful that he will continue the programs that were started and expand them for broader reach. He positions himself as someone deeply committed to the social teachings of the Church.

We, in Cebu, are hopeful that we will be included in his itinerary when the time comes for papal visits. Surely, he has not forgotten our humble island, where the Santo Niño de Cebu is. It is common knowledge that Cebu is the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines, and its people are devoted followers. When that day comes, I'm sure it will be one for the books --and one that we can all be proud of. We know how the Augustinians are, and we know what they are doing for the greater good.

The new pope will be under close scrutiny, as we all try to get to know him a little more. Each day will be a learning experience for him, and for those of us beginning to embrace the Church’s new leader. My only wish is that he keeps us all in his prayers --the Philippines, the cradle of Christianity in Asia. May he see that many of society’s problems require collaboration and open communication. At this time, he must discern the causes to champion --ones that will ultimately define his leadership.