INLAND EMPIRE – (INT) - Bishop Alberto Rojas, leader of the Inland Empire’s Catholics, says the selection of Pope Leo XIV is “the joy of a new beginning and trust in the path that God lays for us.”

Bishop Rojas urged everyone to allow Pope Leo “time to unfold his leadership style and points of emphasis…without quick judgements or speculations.”

“Be attentive to the present moment, neither dwelling on the past nor worrying about the future, Bishop Rojas said in a written statement.

Bishop Rojas said he met the new Pope several times during the Bishop’s years of ministry in Chicago, his hometown. “I found him to be a humble and approachable man of God,” he said.

As Catholics, “It’s our responsibility to care for the poor and marginalized. Our world cries out for a leader who guides us to stand up for the dignity of every human life,” Bishop Rojas said.

Story Date: May 9, 2025