Bishop Michael Martin of the Catholic Diocese of Charlotte says he is 'thrilled' that Leo XIV was chosen Thursday as the next pope.
Born and raised in Chicago, Leo XIV, is from North America. Bishop Martin says he met with Leo in April at the Vatican and believes he will be a worthy successor after Pope Francis’ death.
“He was talking about big issues and important things and still just had a certain calm about him,” Bishop Martin said. “I think Pope Leo has now picked up on saying let's place emphasis not on being understood but on understanding.”
The Catholic Diocese of Charlotte will hold a special mass to pray for Pope Leo Friday evening at 7 pm at St. Matthews Catholic Church in Ballantyne.
