Cheers and excitement from the Young at Heart crowd when Pope Leo XIV was announced!
As the Young at Heart ministry gathered for its final event of the season, no one expected the day to hold historical significance. But shortly after noon on Thursday, May 8, excitement rippled through the crowd, “White smoke, white smoke! The news agencies are reporting white smoke!” Phones came out quickly as everyone huddled together to verify the news. Once confirmed, the AV screen was lowered, the news was turned on, and all eyes were fixed on the unfolding moment in St. Peter’s Square.
Over lunch, attendees speculated: “Who do you think it will be?” Conversations turned to memories of Pope Francis’s election, and many noted the youthful energy of the crowd in the square. Though Mary Lou Hughes, our guest speaker, was scheduled to present on the Holy Doors, it was unanimously decided that she would return in the fall so we could continue watching history in the making.
Finally, the moment arrived when our new pope, an American, was revealed to us. The hall erupted in cheers and applause. Carol Buenzle was thrilled, and Sally Miller shared how special it felt to experience such a “lightening” moment with her faith community, especially after experiencing a difficult week.
Mary Ann McMahon later reflected, “I feel so hopeful for Pope Leo XIV. He worked with the poor in Peru and was deeply loved. He speaks five languages, holds degrees in mathematics and Canon Law, and is a humble man with a heart for the poor. He already speaks of unity, building bridges, and loving all as God’s children. I had tears in my eyes thinking of what our world could become under his leadership. God bless him on this challenging journey—he gives us hope.”
The ministry is now on break for the summer, but we look forward to gathering again in the fall; you never know what historic moment might unfold next!