On Thursday 8 May white smoke from the chimney stack above the Sistine Chapel heralded the election of a new pope. Cardinal Robert Prevost is the new pontiff, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.

Faithful God,
You guide us on the path of life
and your goodness is our constant companion.

Be with our new Shepherd, Pope Leo XIV,
in his service of the Church.
Fill him with the power of your Spirit,
the peace of your presence
and the compassion of Christ.

May he walk with you,
in wisdom and humility,
and lead us, together with all God’s people,
to embody your love for the world.

Amen.