Dear families and friends of St Brigid's,

As the world celebrates the election of our new Pope, Leo XIV, the successor to our beloved Francis I, I was especially moved by a particular part of his first address to the people of the world. He said:

“Therefore, without fear, united hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we move forward. We are disciples of Jesus. Jesus precedes us. The world needs his light. Humanity needs him as the bridge that allows it to be reached by God and by his love.”

How powerful it is that, from the very beginning of his papacy, Pope Leo calls us back to the heart of our Faith—Jesus. We often remind ourselves, and teach our students, that Jesus is our model, the foundation on which we build our lives and values.

In these words, Pope Leo echoes our school’s core values. His call to move forward together, without fear, speaks directly to the value of courage, stepping forward in faith even in uncertain times. His image of Jesus as the bridge of God's love is a reminder of compassion, reaching out with empathy and care to those in need. When we follow Jesus' example, we live lives of service, seeking the good of others, and stewardship, honouring the gifts we have been given and using them to build a better world.

May the peace of Jesus, which he so often offered “Peace be with you” truly enter your hearts, reach your families, and all people, wherever they are, all of the people, all over the earth (Pope Leo). If that peace finds a home in hearts around the world, especially among those in power, then surely our shared hope for peace and justice can grow, bringing about new possibilities and deep joy for so many who currently suffer under the weight of conflict and injustice.

This week, we join Pope Leo in prayer that Jesus may truly become the bridge for humanity, especially for our leaders, that they may bring God’s love into the world. May our new Pope continue to speak with courage, integrity and compassion, so that all people might hear the voice of Jesus and be drawn ever closer to his example.