SEATTLE — On the first Sunday following the election of Pope Leo XIV, many gathered at St. James Cathedral to honor the new pontiff, marking a historic moment as he became the first American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church.
During the mass, parishioners prayed and paid tribute to a shrine dedicated to Pope Leo XIV.
Brian De Soeza, a parishioner, expressed the excitement shared by many, saying, “Everyone was excited to hear about the new pope and pray for the new pope and see what changes it brings.”
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In his first Sunday blessing in Rome, Pope Leo called for peace and unity, a message that resonated with many in Seattle.
John Braseth, another parishioner, said, “Of course I’m proud that he’s an American, but that’s not imminent what it comes down to. What it comes down to is he cares deeply about the poor and the underserved and his anti-war stands and things that are really important in the world right now.”
Christine Mason, a parishioner, shared her optimism, stating, “I’m encouraged that the more we learn about him that he is welcoming and following Francis going forward for the whole church.” Randy Ayala added, “Our new pope being from the U.S makes us all feel connected to the world outside.”
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Pope Leo XIV will be formally inaugurated at a mass in St. Peter’s Square next week on May 18th. Many are eager to witness this new chapter for the Roman Catholic Church.
Christine Mason concluded, “He seems like a man of the people, and I think that’s who we need right now.”
