For Immediate Release: May 8, 2025

WASHINGTON—The election of Cardinal Robert Prevost, OSA as Pope Leo XIV is cause for joy and hope that the “path of peace, justice, and mercy” pursued by Pope Francis continues for the church, said NETWORK Interim Executive Director Joan F. Neal. 

Full statement follows: 

“NETWORK joins countless people across countries, continents, and hemispheres in celebrating a true cause for joy, the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first pope from the United States. At a time when so many world leaders and governments use their power to perpetuate wartime atrocities, hateful disinformation, environmental harm, and violent targeting of people in our communities, the papacy, as shown by Pope Francis, can illuminate a path of peace, justice, and mercy.  

“As a religious and a missionary to communities in poverty in Peru, Pope Leo is both a true shepherd and a champion of the church’s robust Catholic Social Justice tradition. We have hope to see the church move more fully into the work of promoting justice for immigrants, care for creation, faithful citizenship, the leadership of women, and an economy for all. That his election comes in the Easter season and during the Jubilee Year of Hope is a profound and encouraging sign of our times. We pray for Pope Leo and look forward to working with him to build a future where all people without exception are loved, protected, and cared for, in accordance with our God-given dignity.” 

Founded by Catholic Sisters in 1972, NETWORK is an inclusive, national, Catholic advocacy organization open to all who share our values, working for justice and equity for everyone. For 53 years, NETWORK has educated, organized, and lobbied for federal policies that serve the common good and honor the dignity of all people.

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