Modi Congratulates First American Pope Leo XIV, Reaffirms India–Vatican Ties
Photo: Reuters via ANI
NEW DELHI (ANI)– Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to Pope Leo XIV, reaffirming India’s commitment to continued dialogue and engagement with the Holy See in pursuit of shared ideals.
“I convey sincere felicitations and best wishes from the people of India to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV,” Modi posted. “His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace, harmony, solidarity, and service.”
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was elected the 267th Pope by the Vatican conclave on May 8, becoming the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. He has taken the name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement was made from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti with the traditional declaration, Habemus Papam! (“We have a pope”).
Greeting the faithful for the first time, Pope Leo XIV said, “May peace be with all of you.” He emphasized the importance of spreading peace to families and individuals worldwide, and paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, calling for unity and courage as the Church enters a new chapter.
His election was signaled by the iconic white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney and the ringing of the six bells of St. Peter’s Basilica, bringing joy to thousands gathered in Vatican City.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV comes from a rich multicultural background—his father of French and Italian descent, his mother of Spanish heritage. He joined the Order of Saint Augustine and was ordained a priest in Rome on June 19, 1982. He studied Mathematics and Philosophy at Villanova University and later earned a degree in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum).
A former head of the Augustinian order, Pope Leo XIV recently led prayers for Pope Francis during his hospitalization. He now steps into the papacy with a message rooted in unity, hope, and peace.
