Statement on the Election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV

Syrian Christians USA extends heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, on his election as the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. His historic appointment as the first American pope offers a moment of renewed hope and leadership for Catholics and people of faith around the world.

We celebrate Pope Leo XIV’s long-standing dedication to social justice, service to the poor, and his deep pastoral experience in Latin America and beyond. As Syrian Christians—descendants of one of the world’s oldest Christian communities—we look to His Holiness as a spiritual leader whose voice can inspire compassion and justice in regions afflicted by conflict and hardship.

We earnestly hope that Pope Leo XIV will lend his voice to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Syria. In particular, we urge His Holiness to advocate for relief from broad U.S. sanctions that, while aimed at holding the Assad regime accountable, have severely impacted ordinary Syrians, including our Christian communities. These measures have contributed to a deepening economic collapse, shortages of essential goods, and suffering for millions.

We pray that Pope Leo XIV’s papacy will be marked by peace, reconciliation, and meaningful advocacy for vulnerable populations—including Syrian Christians and all Syrians striving to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.