Bishop Lawrence Persico celebrates Pope Leo XIV at Mass of Thanksgiving, emphasizing unity and renewal in the Catholic Church
By Melanie Sisinni05/13/2025
A Mass of Thanksgiving for the newly elected Pope Leo XIV was held early Monday evening at St. Peter Cathedral, Erie. Several priests from throughout the diocese joined Bishop Lawrence Persico as he celebrated this monumental moment in the life of the church. During his homily, Bishop Persico underscored the new pontiff's transformative impact on the global Catholic community. He reflected on the significance of Pope Leo XIV's election and the renewed sense of unity it brings to the church.
"This is a moment of profound grace for our church," Bishop Persico began. "Pope Leo XIV's commitment to justice and compassion resonates deeply with our mission as Catholics."
He highlighted the Pope's inaugural homily, delivered in the Sistine Chapel, where Pope Leo XIV stated:
"I will sing a new song to the Lord because he has done marvels, indeed, not just with me but with all of us. My brother cardinals—as we celebrate this morning, I invite you to recognize the marvels the Lord has done."
Bishop Persico emphasized that these words serve as a call to the faithful to acknowledge the blessings bestowed upon the Catholic Church and work collectively to spread the Gospel.
"Pope Leo XIV reminds us that through the ministry of Peter, we are all called to carry the cross and be blessed with the mission," Bishop Persico continued. "He assures us that he relies on each and every one of us to walk with him as we continue as a church, as a community of friends of Jesus and as believers."
Bishop Persico also addressed the Pope's stance on social issues, noting his alignment with Pope Francis's concern for global humanitarian crises.
"Pope Leo XIV's emphasis on justice and compassion, particularly regarding the plight of civilians in conflict zones, reflects the church's enduring commitment to the marginalized," he said.
Concluding his homily, Bishop Persico called upon the congregation to embrace the new papacy with hope and dedication.
"Let us, as a united church, support Pope Leo XIV in his mission to lead us in faith, love and service," he urged.
The Mass of Thanksgiving served not only as a celebration of the new Pope but also as a reaffirmation of the Catholic (or universal) Church's unity and its commitment to addressing contemporary challenges with renewed vigor and faith.
To view photos from the Mass, visit our online photo album here.
-