BUTUAN CITY – Catholic dioceses across the Caraga region celebrated the election of Pope Leo XIV (Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost) following the passing of Pope Francis last month.
Parishioners hold up a banner of newly elected Pope Leo XIV at the Santa Maria Cathedral, the episcopal see of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, where he served as bishop, Thursday, May 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Guadalupe Pardo)
PARISHIONERS hold up a banner of newly elected Pope Leo XIV at the Santa Maria Cathedral, the episcopal see of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, where he served as bishop, Thursday, May 8, 2025. (AP)
The Diocese of Butuan called on the faithful to support the new pontiff, posting: "May Pope Leo XIV humbly serve the Church of Christ...Let us continue praying for our new Pope and support his mission as Servant of the Servants of God."
The Diocese of Prosperidad noted the symbolic timing as the election occurred on the feast of its patron, Saint Michael, the Archangel.
"This is a powerful reminder of heaven's help in times of battle," they said.
The Dioceses of Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur also welcomed the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.