Gaskin: All Christians should pray for Pope Leo XIV

Though I am not Catholic I hold great respect for the Catholic Church its leadership traditions and the profound contributions of its saints such as Mother Theresa In recent times I determined myself compelled to pray for the selection of the new pope due to the critical role the papacy plays globally On Thursday American Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected pontiff taking the name Pope Leo XIV As Forbes released Pope Leo didn t offer any explanation for his name choice in his first address Thursday but a multitude of have speculated it s likely tied to Pope Leo XIII s legacy of championing the working class with Rev Art Purcaro a friend of Pope Leo XIV pointing to Leo XIII s commitment to social thought and telling CNN he believes the name choice means Leo XIV wants to continue the role that Pope Francis played in promoting social justice The pope s interpretation and application of Catholic social teaching significantly influence contemporary global challenges given the Church s substantial political presence and over billion adherents worldwide A powerful historical example is Pope John Paul II s influential role in supporting the Solidarity movement notably contributing to Poland s liberation from communism In currently s digital age the term influencer typically denotes individuals shaping opinions and trends via social media platforms By this definition the pope is undoubtedly one of the world s largest part essential influencers As of the global Catholic population surpassed billion people constituting nearly half of all Christians worldwide The late Pope Francis had amassed over million followers on X and nearly million additional followers on Instagram making his digital influence extensive and profound Given this immense reach electing a new pope is not merely a matter of internal Church governance but a decision with substantial global implications Therefore it is essential for all Christians Catholic and non-Catholic alike to pray earnestly for Pope Leo s reign asking God to grant him wisdom discernment and integrity Pope Leo now serves as an influential moral authority whose teachings will shape ethical discussions worldwide impacting policies and humanitarian efforts beyond religious boundaries As a prominent religious figure Pope Leo s dedication to interfaith dialogue will foster mutual understanding peace and cooperation among diverse faith communities thus reducing global religious tensions Historically popes have significantly influenced global responses to natural disasters poverty injustice and human rights violations advocating on behalf of marginalized populations and shaping international conversations on equity and compassion A pope committed to peace and reconciliation can facilitate diplomatic dialogues mediate conflicts and foster international cooperation contributing tangibly to global stability and harmony Historically popes have wielded critical influence Pope John XXIII convened the Second Vatican Council which modernized the Catholic Church promoted human rights dignity and enhanced dialogue with other religions Pope John Paul II supported liberation movements against communism and was crucial in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe notably supporting Poland s fight for freedom Pope Francis was an advocate for the conditions refugees and poverty alleviation He influenced international policies on environmental responsibility economic justice and humanitarian aid Given the profound global influence that the pope can exert it is prudent and spiritually responsible for Christians across all denominations to pray earnestly for wise leadership as Pope Leo XVIV begins his reign For various Christians praying for the pope may be challenging due to deeply held anti-Catholic sentiments resulting in hostility discrimination or prejudice against Catholics their beliefs practices or the Catholic Church itself often based on misunderstandings or misrepresentations Such discrimination is neither Biblical nor aligned with Christian principles Christians are called to love and respect all people regardless of ethnicity gender identity or religious beliefs Therefore as Christians committed to peace justice and mutual respect we should set aside biases and unite in prayer supporting Pope Leo spiritually as he undertakes his substantial global role This unified prayerful approach not only strengthens the Catholic Church but fosters greater global harmony embodying the broader Christian commitment to love respect and reconciliation Ed Gaskin is Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets and founder of Sunday Celebrations