Archdiocese Of Bombay Welcomes Election Of Pope Leo XIV, Echoes His Call For Unity And Dialogue

The Archdiocese of Bombay joined the worldwide Roman Catholic community in rejoicing at the election of  Pope Leo XIV as the 267th head of the church. In India, church members shared images of the Pope's visits to India in 2004 and 2006.

In a statement, Archbishop of Bombay, John Rodrigues, said, “We are deeply moved by Pope Leo XIV’s message of unity and his vision of a church that is ‘open to all,’ mirroring Christ’s boundless love. His emphasis on peace, justice, and walking together as a church that goes forth resonates profoundly with our focus in Mumbai. We pledge to amplify his call for dialogue and solidarity with the poor and vulnerable.”

In his first address from St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Italy, Pope Leo XIV, who was elected by a college of Cardinals at a conclave that ended on Thursday, called for peace. He urged humanity to 'build bridges with dialogue and encounter' and to embrace Christ’s light in a world yearning for hope. He emphasised humility, synodality, and closeness to the marginalised.

The Archdiocese said it is grateful to the college of Cardinals for their discernment in electing a Pope with pastoral experience. Pope Leo XIV, who is of American origin, belongs to the Augustinian order and has worked in the community, heading the diocese of Chiclayo, Peru.