Will pray for new Pope, says Church in India

Panaji: The Church in India welcomed the election of Pope Leo XIV, and assured him of prayers. The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) – comprising bishops of the Latin rite in India – expressed great joy upon receiving the news. “May his pontificate be marked by grace, courage, and deep love,” said CCBI vice-president, archbishop Peter Machado.Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference in India (CBCI) said it was a historic milestone where four Indian cardinals participated in the conclave, marking a significant moment in the Church’s history in India.Archbishop of Goa and Daman Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, and auxiliary bishop Simiao Fernandes also extended their prayerful wishes and sentiments of filial devotion as Pope Leo XIV begins his ministry of shepherding the Catholic Church as the successor of the apostle, St Peter. In response to the Pope’s first words, inviting the people to peace and dialogue and sharing God’s love with all, without fear, they pledged their faithful obedience and support to the Vicar of Christ.