Syriac leaders and patriarchs congratulate Catholic Church on election of Pope Leo XIV

VATICAN — After a two-day conclave, the Cardinals of the Catholic Church reached a swift decision on Thursday, electing American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. Following the appearance of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney, Pope Leo XIV emerged on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica to greet the world. Congratulations poured in from leaders and organizations across the globe.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, a Syriac Maronite, extended his congratulations to the Church and the newly elected pope. “We pray to God to grant him health, well-being, and wisdom to lead the Church during this significant phase of its history. May his efforts to spread the message of love and peace, promote interfaith dialogue, and foster achievements for the benefit of humanity be fruitful,” Aoun said.

Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea expressed his hopes that Pope Leo XIV would emulate the virtues of his predecessors: the humane spirit of Pope Francis, the steadfast faith of Pope Benedict XVI, and the holiness, courage, and love for Lebanon exhibited by Pope John Paul II.

Ibrahim Mrad, President of the Syriac Union Party (USUP), lauded the election of the first American pope as a historic milestone for the Catholic Church and the world.

Syriac Orthodox Patriarch Mar Aphrem II offered prayers for the new pope’s ministry and for its sister Catholic Church, emphasizing unity and shared purpose among all Christians.

Co-Chairs of the European Syriac Union, Tony Vergili and Manuela Demir, expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV would champion the plight of those who suffer, particularly Christians in the Middle East. In a social media post, they urged the new pope to remain steadfast in defending the religious, cultural, and social rights of vulnerable communities.

The European Syriac Union (ESU) congratulates His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election as the 267th Pontiff of the Catholic Church.
We pray that his papacy will be a voice for justice, peace, and dignity for all.#PopeLeoXIV #HabemusPapam #ESU #Syriacs #peacemakerapp pic.twitter.com/QkUzCwVwsK

— EuropeanSyriacUnion (@esu_int) May 8, 2025

The Levantine National Council, an advocacy platform for Christians in Syria, also extended its congratulations. In a statement, the Council underscored the “sublime humanitarian mission” of the papacy, which elevates values of peace, tolerance, and dialogue among nations and faiths.

The Council emphasized the significance of papal attention to Syria, highlighting the need for assistance in overcoming its ongoing challenges to achieve stability and justice. It reaffirmed its commitment to advancing justice and fostering coexistence in the Levantine region, urging continued dialogue and cooperation between the Vatican and the Levantine National Council.

Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church, as he becomes the first American pontiff to lead the global institution. As the world watches, his papacy is expected to focus on fostering unity, advocating for peace, and addressing the pressing humanitarian challenges of our time.