Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez released a statement on May 8 marking the first anniversary of Pope Leo XIV’s election as Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church.
The Archbishop said this milestone is significant for Catholics in Philadelphia and around the world, highlighting the unity and peace that have characterized Pope Leo’s leadership over the past year. “Today is a moment of great joy for Catholics in the Church of Philadelphia and throughout the world as we celebrate the first anniversary of Pope Leo XIV’s election as Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church,” Pérez said.
Pérez reflected on Pope Leo’s initial message to crowds in Rome, describing it as “a message of unity in the Church and peace in the world.” He also pointed to papal documents such as Dilexi Te (To All Christians on Love for the Poor) as evidence of “his fatherly care for the Church in the model of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd.”
The Archbishop noted an event last fall when Pope Leo connected with American youth through a digital encounter with 15,000 young people at Indianapolis’ National Catholic Youth Conference. “That historic encounter reflected Pope Leo’s desire to connect with young people in the digital landscape where faith and technology intersect,” Pérez said.
He further shared his personal experiences meeting with Pope Leo in Rome: “My encounters with Pope Leo in Rome on several occasions have given me inspiration and strength in my episcopal ministry. The Holy Father has assured me of his prayers and support for the entire Church of Philadelphia.”
Pérez concluded by inviting Catholics to pray: “For our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, on the first anniversary of his election as universal pastor, that he may be strengthened by prayers…to guide and govern…in unity…for salvation.” The Archdiocese provides outreach through agencies like Nutritional Development Services and Catholic Social Services for community support; its main worship site is Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul; it serves more than 1.3 million Catholics across its area; functions as a metropolitan see overseeing suffragan dioceses; works to spread Gospel values through charitable efforts; and since 2020 has been led by Pérez himself according to the official website.
