Prime Minister Mark Carney has congratulated Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on his election as the new pope, following the announcement from Vatican City that he will be known as Pope Leo XIV. The election concludes a two-day conclave of 133 Cardinals, which was convened after the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday.
Carney acknowledged the historic moment in a formal statement, referring to the iconic image of white smoke rising above the Sistine Chapel as a symbol of “renewal, hope, and unity for more than a billion faithful worldwide.”
“Canadians offer best wishes to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV as he begins his papacy,” said the prime minister. “At a time of profound global challenges, may his pontificate be marked by wisdom, discernment, a deep commitment to common good, and dignity of all.”
The 2021 federal census reports that 10.8 million Canadians identify as Catholic, making this moment especially significant for many across the country. Carney concluded his message with a call for cooperation, stating, “Canada looks forward to working with His Holiness to build a world guided by solidarity, justice, and sustainability.”
The newly elected pope appeared before crowds from the Vatican balcony on May 8, 2025, marking the official beginning of his pontificate.