My first recollection of anything to do with a Pope was Pope John Paul I.  I remember there being lots of discussion at my school about the new Pope and how we were waiting for the smoke to turn white.  Even though TV was still black and white we still waited excitedly.

What I remember most is that only a few weeks later the next Pope was elected and having to wait again, then we were gifted Pope John Paul II.  As a small child I did not really understand what had happened, but the excitement of the white smoke has stayed with me.

There have been days of anticipation about the appointing of the new Pope. Although not much information is yet available about his choice of name, it is an exciting time.   Pope Leo XIV is very young so I am sure we will have many years of his leadership. Knowing that he was appointed by Pope Francis gives me great hope that he will continue with compassion and grace.  Please pray for all those in our church leadership as they guide us into the future.

“God cares for us, God loves all of us, and evil will not prevail! We are all in God's hands. Therefore, without fear, united hand in hand with God and among ourselves, let us move forward.” Pope Leo XIV 8^th May 2025