On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the 267th Bishop of Rome and took the name Pope Leo XIV. This marked a historic moment for the global Catholic Church and for the United States, welcoming the first pope born in America. As we mark the first anniversary of his pontificate on May 8, 2026, we pause to give thanks and pray for his continued ministry.
Reflecting on Pope Leo XIV’s First Year as Pope
The first year of any papacy is a profound period of listening, travel, and teaching. Over the past twelve months, Pope Leo XIV has shown a dedication to keeping the Church united around Christ and boldly proclaiming the Gospel to the modern world. From his continued emphasis on global peace to his pastoral messages encouraging families, his leadership has focused deeply on drawing the faithful closer to the Eucharist and to one another.
Whether you followed the conclave closely last year or simply prayed from home, anniversaries like this are a gentle reminder to return to prayer. We are called to pray not only for the Holy Father, but for bishops, priests, religious, and every family trying to live the Catholic faith in ordinary life.
How to Pray for the Pope and the Catholic Church
You might offer a simple, heartfelt prayer today:
Lord, bless Pope Leo XIV. Guide his heart, strengthen his witness, and unite your people in faith, hope, and charity. Amen.
The Church also invites us to pray for the Pope regularly through the Prayer for the Pope and during the Eucharistic Prayer at Mass. Building a small habit—such as praying one Hail Mary or taking a moment of silence when you see news from the Vatican—keeps us spiritually tied to the universal Church.
Keep Your Daily Faith Close on Your Screen
Daily prayer does not require a breaking news headline to begin. Many Catholics use Catholic Daily to place the daily Gospel, saint quotes, and the liturgical calendar directly on their phone’s Home and Lock Screen. This ensures that your faith meets you in normal, everyday moments—whether you are unlocking your phone, starting your morning routine, or pausing at night.
If you are setting up Catholic widgets for the first time, our step-by-step guides can help:
However you choose to mark this papal anniversary, may it be a day of peace, gratitude, and unwavering trust in Christ, who safely leads His Church through every age.