POOR HANDMAIDS OF JESUS CHRIST
Statement on the Election of Pope Leo XIV

With hearts full of prayer and hope, the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ rejoice in the election of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV. We extend our deep gratitude to the Holy Spirit for guiding the discernment of the College of Cardinals and offer our unwavering prayers for Pope Leo XIV as he begins his apostolic service to the People of God.

We recognize in Pope Leo XIV a shepherd deeply formed by his life among the people—born of the Americas and having served shoulder to shoulder with our brothers and sisters across its communities. His life of ministry embodies the Gospel values we hold dear: humility, courage, and a preferential option for the poor.

Rooted in the charism of our foundress, Saint Katharina Kasper, we are reminded of her humble yet courageous spirit. She often said, “Whatever God wants, will be done,” expressing a deep trust in the will of God.

In this moment of transition and renewal for the universal Church, we echo her faith-filled surrender and commit ourselves anew to serve the poor, the sick, and the marginalized—those Christ himself loved so dearly.

The Gospel of Matthew reminds us: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). We believe Pope Leo XIV has been called to this servant leadership, to shepherd the Church with compassion, justice, and a heart attuned to the needs of all, especially those on the peripheries. We pray that his witness may call forth a deeper dialogue across differences, the dismantling of systems of oppression, and the restoration of dignity for all—especially the poor, the migrant, the excluded, and the wounded.

As Poor Handmaids, we stand ready to journey alongside our Holy Father in advancing the Gospel message of love, mercy, and inclusion. May Pope Leo XIV lead with the wisdom of the Spirit, the courage of the saints, and the humility of Christ.

In faith and service,
The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ