Bishop da Cunha issues statement on the election of the new Pope Leo XIV; will celebrate mass for Pope on Friday, May 16, 2025

FALL RIVER — Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha has issued the following statement on the occasion of the election of Pope Leo XIV:

On behalf of all the priests, deacons, religious, and faithful of the Diocese of Fall River, I offer my sincerest congratulations, prayers, and best wishes to the newly elected successor of St. Peter, Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, who chose the name of Pope Leo XIV. Most importantly, on this extraordinary and joyous occasion, I offer my prayers and those of the entire Diocese for the Holy Father as he sets out on the path chosen for him by the Lord and entrusted to him by the College of Cardinals. May God grant him the help and strength he will need as he undertakes the office of Bishop of Rome and Pastor of the Universal Church.