By John Rohlf, The Message assistant editor
Bishop Joseph M. Siegel reflected on the news of the first American pope and his connection to the new pope during a press conference at the Diocese of Evansville Catholic Center May 8.
Shortly after the announcement that Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, was named the 267th pope, Bishop Siegel met with several local media to discuss the new pope and the significance of his election, both for the church and the country.
Pope Leo XIV was named the first American pope after a majority of 133 cardinals voted to elect him as the next leader of the Catholic Church during the papal conclave. He is originally from Chicago, Illinois.
Bishop Siegel said about 10 years ago, he met Pope Leo XIV when he was a bishop in Peru. Bishop Siegel had the opportunity to sit next to now Pope Leo XIV during a Gala in Bishop Siegel’s home diocese of Joliet, Illinois. The Gala was held to help raise funds for the missions of the Augustinians.
Bishop Siegel reflected from his interaction that Pope Leo XIV was a very nice man and he really had a heart for the missions and serving people there. He was impressed by Pope Leo XIV’s kindness and love for the Lord and for his people.
In his statement issued May 8, Bishop Siegel said in union with the whole Catholic Church, the Diocese of Evansville gave thanks to God for the election of Pope Leo XIV.
“It is a special joy that he is the first pope from North America, born and raised in the Midwest,” Bishop Siegel said in his statement. “In the days to come, we will learn more about our new Supreme Pontiff and his vision for leading the church in the coming years. At this time, I ask all Catholics in our 12 counties and all people of good will to pray for Pope Leo as he begins his petrine ministry, that the Holy Spirit may bless and guide him as he leads us in love to a deeper faith and hope in the risen Lord Jesus Christ.”
Bishop Siegel noted that with 2025 being the Jubilee Year of Hope, it is appropriate that we enter into this new era of hope. Bishop Siegel said we are pilgrims of hope and he thinks that is the way Pope Leo XIV will lead us as a pilgrim of hope and certainly of peace.
Bishop Siegel said we pray Pope Leo XIV will be guided by the Holy Spirit and given the wisdom and prudence he needs to lead our church well. He said we all need to take the time to pray for Pope Leo XIV. We will learn in the months to come his vision for his role as pope and for the church moving forward, Bishop Siegel said.