St. Catharines bishop says Pope Leo XIV will be reassuring leader as ‘modern pope’

Following Pope Leo XIV’s first mass as pontiff Friday, a St. Catharines bishop says he is happy with the conclave’s choice in new pope.

Bishop Gerard Bergie, from the Diocese of St. Catharines, says he was initially surprised by the choice, but is ultimately happy with the decision.

He said Pope Leo’s qualities fit the modern role of the pope, which is more than just being the head of the Catholic church.

“I think what’s happened in the last 100 years is that the role of the pope is focused more on the world, and not only the church so he becomes more of a world leader,” said Bergie.

White smoke billowed out of the Sistine Chapel chimney Thursday announcing a new pope.

This is at a time when Bergie says there is angst and turmoil in the world.

He hopes Pope Leo XIV will follow in the footsteps of the last Pope Leo, who was an advocate for workers.

“We’re at a time right now when there’s a lot of angst and turmoil in the whole world with regards to jobs and AI,” said Bergie. “I think that maybe he’s going to be a leader in that regard and just reminding people of the dignity of each person and we can’t lose sight of that.”

“His first words was ‘peace be with you’ and I think that message of peace is also an important one, especially today when we look at all the conflicts of the world,” said Bergie.

Pope Leo XIV presided over mass Friday at the Sistine Chapel, the same place he was elected pope.

“Through the Ministry of Peter, you have called me to carry that cross and be blessed with admission, and I know I can rely on each and every one of you to walk with me as we continue as a church, as a community of friends of Jesus, as believers to announce the good news, to announce the gospel,” said Pope Leo XIV.

He was borne Robert Francis Prevost, he earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Villanova University in Pennsylvania and later earned a diploma in theology from the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago.

He studied Canon law in Rome before teaching and eventually becoming a bishop in Peru.

“His vast experience, I think he bridges the administrative, the pastoral, and the theological,” said Bergie, “and I think they saw in him an overall well-rounded individual.”

There is worldwide celebration, including from Pope Leo XIV’s own family.

“Not only the pope, but the first American pope – the first pope from Chicago – and my brother,” said John Provost, Pope Leo XIV’s brother.

The pope’s inaugural mass will be held Sunday at St. Peter’s Square, and it will be open to the public.

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