The Wired Word for 05182025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 05/18/2025 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article2.74d541386bbf.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 05/18/2025 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [#CatholicChurch, #PapalElection, #Unity, #Leadership, #TheWiredWord, #FaithDiscussion] - #CatholicChurch - #PapalElection - #Unity Author: The Wired Word Editorial Team Source: The Wired Word, Lesson for May 18, 2025 Reference: [thewiredword.com](https://thewiredword.com) | Lesson emailed May 15, 2025 date created: 2025-05-16 08:23 --- # We Have a Pope! Seagulls, Smoke and Synodality ## Reflections on the Election of Pope Leo XIV and Christian Unity ## Table of Contents - [📝 Summary](#-summary) - [📖 Main Content](#-main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#️-️notes) - [📖 References](#-references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#-paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#-newsletter) - [✅ Action Items](#-action-items) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#-methodology) - [❓ Questions](#-questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#-future-research) - [💡 Implications](#-implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Assessment](#-deib-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-belonging-assessment) - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) - [🔍 DARVO Analysis Prompt](#-darvo-analysis-prompt) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#-seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) --- ## 📝 Summary The Wired Word lesson for May 18, 2025, focuses on the election of Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV — the first American and Augustinian pope. The article explores his multicultural background, family history, and unique ministry journey, which collectively position him as a symbol of unity in the global Catholic Church. The lesson highlights themes of diversity, decision-making, and the biblical meaning of unity, referencing both the election process and relevant Scripture. The lesson also encourages reflection on what true leadership means in times of division and upheaval, using the pope’s story as a springboard for faith discussions. --- ## 📖 Main Content This Wired Word lesson uses the backdrop of Pope Leo XIV’s election to explore broader Christian themes: * **Historic Papal Election:** - Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, is noted as the first American and the first Augustinian to serve as pope. - His personal story is marked by multicultural heritage (Creole, Spanish, Franco-Italian, Haitian, Jewish), missionary service in Peru, and work across three continents. * **Unity and Diversity:** - The article examines the Church’s ongoing tension between unity and diversity. - Cites “continuity” and “unity” as key terms in the cardinals’ decision, desiring a leader to continue Pope Francis’s outreach to the poor and marginalized, while also navigating internal divisions. * **Symbolism of Seagulls and Smoke:** - The election’s dramatic announcement included white smoke and a family of seagulls, prompting reflection on omens, symbolism, and group identity (flock, colony, etc.). * **Synodality:** - Pope Leo XIV calls for a “synodal church” — emphasizing listening, dialogue, and open arms for all. * **Scripture Integration:** - Lessons are reinforced through passages on unity, transformation, leadership, and faith: - *Psalm 133*, *Ephesians 4*, *Philippians 3*, *Acts 1*, and *Matthew 16*. - Highlights the importance of unity (“In the One, we are one”), humility in leadership, and the transformative power of encountering Christ personally. * **Questions and Application:** - Prompts for discussion on what makes a good leader, the significance of origin, the meaning of naming, and the challenge of unity in diversity. --- ### 🗒️ Notes - 🕊️ **Election and Symbolism** - Pope Leo XIV (Prevost) elected as 267th pope. - Dramatic setting: Seagulls and white smoke signal his election. - Multicultural heritage: American, Peruvian, Creole, Spanish, Franco-Italian, Haitian, Jewish roots. - Grew up role-playing Mass; early sense of vocation. - 🌎 **Themes of Unity and Diversity** - Cardinals sought “continuity” and “unity” after Pope Francis. - Church faces divisions: traditional vs. progressive. - Prevost’s background seen as bridge-building. - 🗣️ **Leadership and Identity** - Pope’s first message: Emphasizes peace, mission, and openness. - Calls for a “missionary Church,” open to all, “synodal” in practice. - Chose name Leo XIV to echo Pope Leo XIII’s focus on social justice. - 📜 **Scripture and Faith** - Psalm 133: Unity as “good and pleasant.” - Philippians 3: Value of knowing Christ above all achievements. - Acts 1: Criteria for apostolic leadership, discernment process. - Matthew 16: Peter’s confession as foundation, importance of identity and naming. - ❓ **Discussion Prompts** - Qualities sought in leaders. - Significance of a leader’s background. - Power and meaning of names and name changes. - Role of lay people in fostering unity. - Brand and image of religious leaders. - Challenging assumptions about leadership origins. - ✝️ **Practical Application** - Encourages personal reflection on unity, humility, mission, and openness. - Calls for prayer and practical steps toward greater fellowship. --- ## 📖 References - [Biography of Pope Leo XIV, Vatican News](https://www.vaticannews.va) - [‘Peace Be With You All,’ BBC](https://www.bbc.com) - [Full Homily: First Mass of Pope Leo XIV, EWTN](https://www.ewtn.com) - [Brooks and Capehart on Pope Leo XIV’s Impact, PBS NewsHour](https://www.pbs.org) - [Letters from an American, May 8, 2025](https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com) - [The Wired Word](https://thewiredword.com) — lesson text, May 15, 2025 --- ## 🗣️ Paraphrase **Original:** “It is thought that because of his unique background, identity, understated style and global experience, Prevost might be able to articulate a message all Catholics could embrace.” **Paraphrased:** Prevost’s multicultural roots, quiet leadership, and wide-ranging ministry give him a rare opportunity to share a message that resonates with the whole Catholic community. --- **Original:** “The description of the Church as ‘synodal’ is a reference to the practice of listening ‘first of all to the Holy Spirit,’ and also to each other, as a way to affirm that lay Catholics are as much a part of the Church as are the clergy, although with different responsibilities.” **Paraphrased:** Calling the Church “synodal” means it’s built on listening — to the Holy Spirit and to one another — and affirms that everyone, not just clergy, has a vital role in shaping the Church. --- ## 📰 Newsletter **Habemus Papam! Meet Pope Leo XIV — A Pope for Unity and Change** Big news for the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics: the conclave has elected Pope Leo XIV, the first American and Augustinian pontiff, whose multicultural roots and decades of missionary work make him uniquely suited to guide the Church through both tradition and transformation. His early words urge us toward peace, humility, and a more “synodal” approach — listening, dialogue, and open arms for all. This week’s lesson reflects on leadership, the importance of names and identity, and the biblical call to unity in diversity. Don’t miss the conversation starters and Scripture connections — perfect for deepening faith and understanding in our ever-changing world. Links: - [Biography: Pope Leo XIV](https://www.vaticannews.va) - [Full Homily (EWTN)](https://www.ewtn.com) - [Lesson archive](https://thewiredword.com) --- ## ✅ Action Items - *For Open Source/WordPress Advocates:* - Use this papal story as a springboard for discussing diversity and inclusion in technical communities. - Develop workshops or modules on the power of naming, belonging, and shared purpose in contributor onboarding. - Share resources on how diverse leadership backgrounds (cultural, professional, theological) can help bridge divides and drive unity. - Encourage transparent, dialogue-based decision-making in open source project governance. - Model humility and listening — “synodal” leadership — when facilitating contributor conversations or resolving disputes. - Support efforts to recognize and celebrate the global diversity of con - Summary: The convening of the Roman Catholic conclave of cardinals earlier this month resulted in the election of Robert Francis Prevost as the new leader of the world's 1. 4 billion Catholics. Dear Class Members, The convening of the Roman Catholic conclave of cardinals earlier this month resulted in the election of Robert Francis Prevost as the new leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. The event suggested themes of decision-making, naming ourselves, and unity and diversity in the church. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **'We Have a Pope!' Seagulls, Smoke and Synodality*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of May 18, 2025** **In the News** "2 minutes and 22 seconds of baby seagull and white smoke!! *habemus papam*," exclaimed a user on X. Just after 6 p.m. local time May 8, [a tiny gray seagull chick had appeared](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBb1SkmzKZOuyLl8c3MDIsdGFLYHngv2-2BVwidGbrpalOKVzx7CJoFY4ZTYHN7HMwM6WnnWn6vDzaPSrft3y18MRDxarMu-2BB1Mzb07EEDdanVC6FEAZPF48Gq-2F8UL1VV0Ht8LVKkMCLiKSvuUDyWZFxKJCjEK7w5Cp0SZ7Y3Yrrj-2Fj4sU5ujQc4E5Tg8htbeO1A-3D-3DjxE6_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF5YUovjBTEQhMgqRb8HMoYr2c8x76563XIU-2FDLGUHXH2g95M3ia-2F0qzcKNp5xx1Hi8q68QuT1WylKl2VPWIMKwwVP-2F8d9fyCVG3uI-2BOeAQmCzEYMeRQY23tNAsp-2BTDcEBgbXzbi8HuEECGW6hr9Fhhux5UMKJWRHwMPmLmQ5xQ9pMZWDfVjmpxjAkbXsY-2BM8673kZ8ZCpuQKZfCfdFxz9-2FE-3D) with its mother on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, moments before white smoke began pouring out of its chimney, signaling that a new pope had been chosen on the fourth vote of the cardinals meeting in a conclave below. The crowd assembled at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City reacted with jubilant shouts and applause. When an observer asked what a group of seagulls is called, a journalist responded that the collective noun for seagulls is a colony, though they may also be a squabble, a scold or a hover; but he supposed the cardinals would prefer the pastoral term, "flock" of seagulls. Robert Francis Prevost, 69, has been chosen as the 267th pope, the first from the United States of America and the first from the Augustinian order. His identity made him an unexpected yet ultimately understandable candidate for his new role as leader of a vast global enterprise encompassing 1.4 billion Catholics. The grandson of a Creole couple from New Orleans who are described as black or mulatto in historical records, Prevost was born in Chicago in 1955 to parents of Spanish and Franco-Italian descent, has Haitian and Jewish connections in his family tree, and grew up in a family of immigrants. His brother, retired Catholic school principal John Prevost, recalled that Robert would play priest as a kid, putting a tablecloth on their mother's ironing board so they could go to Mass, and even reciting prayers in Latin. "One of the moms across the street ... said to him, 'You're going to be the first American pope,'" John added. Whether her prophetic words or the appearance of a flock of seagulls at the moment of Prevost's selection as the new pope qualify as omens, who knows? Prevost spent 20 years as a missionary in Peru, where he became a citizen in 2015. He served the Church on three continents (in his native Chicago in North America, as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, South America, and as close friend of Pope Francis and prefect of the Decastery for Bishops at the Vatican in Europe). It's been reported that as the cardinals deliberated prior to extending the call to Prevost, two words kept coming up: "continuity" and "unity." Apparently there was strong consensus that the new pope should continue to move in the direction Pope Francis had led the Church, reaching out to "the least of these," standing with the poor and amplifying the voices of those who are often dismissed and unheard in society. At the same time, the leaders recognized that the new pontiff would need to deal with the tensions within the Church between traditionalist and progressive elements that threaten the unity of the community of faith. It is thought that because of his unique background, identity, understated style and global experience, Prevost might be able to articulate a message all Catholics could embrace. Pope Leo XIV delivered his first address to the faithful in Italian, Spanish and Latin from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, offering "the peace of the Risen Christ, a disarming and humble and preserving peace ... [which] comes from God, who loves all of us, without any limits or conditions. ... Evil will not prevail. We are all in the hands of God. Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward. We are disciples of Christ, Christ goes before us, and the world needs his light. ... "We have to look together how to be a missionary Church, building bridges, dialogue, always open to receiving with open arms for everyone, like this square, open to all, to all who need our charity, our presence, dialogue, love," the pontiff continued. "We want to be a synodal church, walking and always seeking peace, charity, closeness, especially to those who are suffering." The description of the Church as "synodal" is a reference to the practice of listening "first of all to the Holy Spirit," and also to each other, as a way to affirm that lay Catholics are as much a part of the Church as are the clergy, although with different responsibilities.. More on this story can be found at these links: [Biography of Pope Leo XIV, Born Robert Francis Prevost.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIx82AqyGiKiFftQa05DgodbOfnX4wYoI08YkTTBGFqEONicSwtn8jMuQaDVN9x2Bg7NAACqPxeBVLyP3DvRoIcWb27-2BQDHBT7XJ-2F2RKhj1UsweYmmpqHxwchzKA5N-2B1bw-3D-3DBIyl_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF8e31-2Ba9jhItpmcARL8dGW6QlhAiEiwHqE6-2FktjSjFOvv1XWJ2RA1MbPnMpnbzZ0DAf6tcCjnIqAnyDShsc58uAhzRpTLonNZeJ6JrqSZOzdsLr8JMRBKy7hP7CR-2FVZLW01i4nRB-2FL9OQrd4XU5SASuytiK5UaxCtcYwaW0Mkcm0D4V8-2BuKaVW6chzMZLUVUIVkkQSvbf6X0IXBH87OqQHw-3D) [*Vatican News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIx82AqyGiKiFftQa05DgodbOfnX4wYoI08YkTTBGFqEONicSwtn8jMuQaDVN9x2Bg7NAACqPxeBVLyP3DvRoIcWb27-2BQDHBT7XJ-2F2RKhj1UsweYmmpqHxwchzKA5N-2B1bw-3D-3DDpz6_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF2dykMGd7p8ovaxZsG-2BtGTWHoBKiSePXKkssb8agHAavaEYCDZEQ8hy3pUGuYzXWk6Wk8NVUfquqNTvDwF7MZzKf8jgqyyNHk4oyotOaETxnDaghgcl47FuuWFTdLw6qP96-2B-2Fw8SliVslRqcPRDeRCILJgkPJa05Rpz-2BwuuLv21duSLCfZOGh7ju0Bx10KRSizAjy-2BIV3dJCQ3rtweD-2Ftd8-3D) ['Peace Be With You All,' Pope Leo XIV Says in First Speech.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPN6H9bXG5FD2vf7eZP7qLxKI1lsXyZuws7M4nlWiSKe14Flb-2B1TqVSzOR0ODJpqdaQ-3D-3DeOQm_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF5I78EmTN3mkHrF-2FnfGYr6NOAVSCAnCMgcPA1IquX27aY9vvFenNMsUxD3wBUVZ9tQHo03hDahbp9BDGPVsveGP6uxOln9wicNZ-2Fhqdujp5XDCJbd-2FEuEAQJ7Qs3aXSrHxXbIm6F9lUwVdYmN76Q7nPm2mv5tWjHMw9Olj6UjyPWs4GvQHOw1H4Gu01RT0vyZirmwEpOjRo-2FzZeDecKNBIs-3D) [*BBC*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPN6H9bXG5FD2vf7eZP7qLxKI1lsXyZuws7M4nlWiSKe14Flb-2B1TqVSzOR0ODJpqdaQ-3D-3DXgo__-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPFzDvwDgV5FeyxP93fuPzBesXzA-2B-2FKCQVunh-2FUiuDS3lhzyR-2BFpJImwI3wM4Z4H5ZYxKNx5RIqSxT2n0jhwUyAIoRnxMXuY6ebK9XYaRLhBsvGMzDNhWUpvHbzV670hYC06LNkyWJSnSEytD3DCl2AjfeM5sVxZolLjbmcEHBrDIN0QxTFgxt8xkBCZspEiZ7yb1Wgx2HS7Kr1qFTGBaurUg-3D) [Full Homily: First Mass of Pope Leo XIV (English Version) (Video 11:44).](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3DdS8m_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF4kfb7acNYOVKgM6zZfRO-2BpdOy9SH8q-2F7L5T7Y-2B9HttxtyiHLukJLvDVaxcuPJnaRCO5c-2BvrVQvrw5RITTRsj-2BVE6troclxogHAOgeewkpBcgBPjGlVIsv7A3-2BvxoVkmEMtvFpKMi1TY81BGBVftmEO09VFH0Q4KDTU91-2BIRSofWRCxeHS3WmvzP6RLIJg8u3K0uMlX7ZOYXeOepPDHYt3A-3D) [*EWTN*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3D0Hvo_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF7rvochchm4NvtqFaoPGavQIe7-2BZQRS7Fc5pH1VmaWnvxSH3zDwmGHLKa2yUeW3sGUJYCvQ5YwUPT8E8c79E0guawePRIXb59FnKYSXbayDEvJcXyFa4nWexrw1q3aYeIkBpGGfTELb8Rnp5dDH5LghPXq-2FFqyEiMKXW-2Br3kH3Pp51LVgpBpRMQG1rIKjPbpp55YO8LD17WQKQH8mj4z4Zw-3D) [May 8, 2025.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGFsmB-2FGohZXdnsY-2BXAJekVGqdtV2-2Fcr0OJxsjCTP6epSHIKiX9-2BPBKBFWdBVQ8HYQ-3D-3DEAsf_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPFz6vaKKs4JLsWe0On-2BQYxGG44gHBaDCLrtg7vB8tIp9SaLrdQryo-2FoyoisR0ylVudpsT4DKxKOpq5iDn8S8r-2BSHhF10fQFqoZFAN3fgw7v0ZvBzHK7j5DiGSwje5hTC3INv7BpCR64U91OraJAuk-2BrKsUFrm0IYAztBVW-2BoK1Jbi3BGfu73dSPOq9WrybHKuygf1XYs-2F-2B7mzWOJEdfvRbt4-3D) [*Letters from an American*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGFsmB-2FGohZXdnsY-2BXAJekVGqdtV2-2Fcr0OJxsjCTP6epSHIKiX9-2BPBKBFWdBVQ8HYQ-3D-3DDsdo_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF1Pl8HuWLBs00-2F8tD0E6iCB4u3VMeo95sSZwQn4ll4J8gBrI-2BDN7N9Eg6AtewEz54cKhg4aMKeLY9K6UZ2-2Bo-2BBJWy1Us2vfF59syk2GFm-2F1egRftWJBozdpM01p3EJZHTmI2QWuOh1St9h1FcG50wLc3EHSwAiX1TEKc1pCSrtEPDDprAHm2LPdEvS6osJA9vdhNZxqC9-2FBIscJjVXbhacI-3D) [Brooks and Capehart on Pope Leo XIV's Potential Impact on U.S. Culture and Politics (Video 10:44).](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2BC0tpSfDG9D-2BTFLhkzO3rVr4PLvZiVBNzFqPo4xZ2huw-3D-3D0ucg_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF-2FhIwO9tNlGO5Jy7bE18U1sbV8U2t29A3QOPat82doD-2FRpY4dMWgrEwanbxVf6XH7IgZsoye873-2FZamKECzE1Kq7cfm-2FQ2yy5tF6umofmgmlg1Y15etZg9YiBBlyUhmuuhn3IivllRsivPA9gzs0NiiJEyFiRxlqiV82Zy-2BLppqPPqvmxud5amjkasEeKoC2S-2Bncf8ddFG-2BpLANRAnAO4r0-3D) [*PBS NewsHour*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2BC0tpSfDG9D-2BTFLhkzO3rVr4PLvZiVBNzFqPo4xZ2huw-3D-3DtUbm_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF1YdachWjhE1acvXCHL0xqrcijWzU0M4N3PpIheyox5xZc7r-2BsBVkV1yOLgZEF82tqnwIvpm0ofJRKLNTqlB3v0T-2BxrbUssuphbJEM54-2BzSWFb9qMcEbgMbcOaC4ww2nWIaPlsNbz3fmJM2g8iQ1mBZsGau0bFl7omxWluL1ZuY4NFrB8TESZ-2BmAYW5gckh7clm1mIuheJyb44yxcVdVKXE-3D) **Applying the News Story** Pope Leo XIV said he chose the papal name in recognition of the similarities of our own time with those of Pope Leo XIII (pope from 1878 to 1903), who spoke to problems raised by industrialized society. Citing recent developments in artificial intelligence, Leo XIV stressed that the Church's social teaching provides a strong "defense of human dignity, justice and labor." In his social encyclical, *Rerum Novarum*, Leo XIII stressed the biblical teaching that humans are made in the image of God, and as such have certain entitlements, including the right of workers to a living wage that would allow them to live in dignity. His criticism of Marxist class warfare and unregulated capitalism and embrace of economic policies that work for the common good undergird the Catholic social doctrine to which Leo XIV is heir. **The Big Questions** 1. What qualities do you look for in a pastor? Why are those traits important to you? 2. Would you want a pope or other church leader to be "perfect"? Why or why not? 3. In times of social upheaval, what can a spiritual leader do to nurture unity and peace in a community of faith? How can lay persons come alongside such a leader to move toward that goal? 4. When might the country of origin of a pope be particularly significant? What does it mean to you that this pontiff has dual citizenship (in Peru and the United States)? How might his life story and origin create expectation? 5. What name would you choose for yourself if you were called to a new ministry, and why? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Psalm 133:1***How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity!* (For context, read [Psalm 133:1-3](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxkxWnH75PDKI-2FLOvwz4PjDHUqDBVp-2FzH4z7FzJxkKfZdO4JS7R14eMJc74cA2hnssHALV_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF9k69s3ZPBZyTdQerxbVIAzyuXt2HH10ptSD0VPEsF7S8eqHZIWh7hfx1BQWORPIDv0LIEUsgd2Fg1dP0lg4W5U1Vuwg28PtANVuJNtVo9Cuhak-2BzAB0RLBezacIpON64-2BjDr7doz-2B4uHuB5TZL-2Fb7lXmsJIqAN9nmx6VyK1NZuDXY28gowFazbvqcx35yPQ5qZWKpf2BkQuzLqfIhQfuQc-3D).) Before David was crowned king over all Israel, the tribes fought among themselves, each seeking advantages for their own group. When they finally united under David's leadership, the land experienced a time of rest, peace and refreshment ([1 Chronicles 12:3](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxrB1bmKx4W8JgtOp9FCam1l9c74zpjcFdTiR4FujIBfqqlSfbz9RzQhx3ak0-2Fhn9uXGVf2El-2FDjX16QVdGj5nkQ-3D-3DfurI_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF73NA9W1fj5I82vUoJuHBCRgBpYLN1y4K0i1ZwryoifD2Q-2FlszGeX0M-2FqUBS4nXEBd2ibPsHVVuuYz-2BVD6CeyiGqiIPMTYd85Z9ludFg09ShRboYyxu21u-2F0GjXTaegXEnUHzmJL-2FdeJgD68ggQo-2BrzeBqqJM57DVgXAwPfrdhM-2Fou7uPXrhxCalrGMIsFETNIB9b6F1oMXJn0K7eMfBwd8-3D)[8-40](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxrB1bmKx4W8JgtOp9FCam1l9c74zpjcFdTiR4FujIBfqqlSfbz9RzQhx3ak0-2Fhn9uXGVf2El-2FDjX16QVdGj5nkQ-3D-3Dakek_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF0-2B3dZoDgVKgQNrGm2IRGxFCabwvI1zEqhOfF9DHUoVdeX8s0M7vYNcgK0ZjNkW22s-2FhGlRVTg4-2FQpOSix7mnToIAnQxpLS7muXtcsAqV4CHnDWgozNP89YEyGkOQYi1mqfXJAaw86sHqbkevRRJ-2BxdRSLrBfW0w5j1GT1a-2BTuBubAMBPTUh1rBWTr4gjxHswy-2FCa281oMn9NvOEwiG2rqc-3D)). The Hebrew word for unity used here is *yachad*, which means "together" or "oneness." In a 2023 interview, then-bishop Prevost said, "Some misconstrue unity as uniformity: 'You have to be the same as we are.' No. This cannot be." The psalmist compares unity to precious anointing oil poured on the head of Aaron (v. 2) when he was installed as high priest, the person who represented the entire nation in his body when he went before God. The book of Hebrews identifies Jesus as "the apostle and high priest of our confession" (Hebrews 3:1-2), and as such, he is the one who represents and unites all the people of God in his body in the presence of God. Prevost's episcopal motto, taken from a sermon about church unity by St. Augustine, *In Illo uno unum*, means "In the One, we are one," or "although we Christians are many, in the one Christ, we are one." When Paul was in prison because of his declaration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, he urged the believers at Ephesus to cherish, cultivate and strive to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace ([Ephesians 4:1-6](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx-2F9xuITdvxpNxFuzW6j6ZGK2DK2SCGVoFIsOtzPO-2FQJ1Q-2FS8VYrs-2Flo49FY7FehcmqNNK_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF9dc4MVl19WODe8ScxyjasobZkJFWKBwWOUekAZQy-2BZ3VMQHRnrdH4MaN-2F7SM-2B3z-2FkT3N7cv8NQGtTMbKKt1x8-2Bmhf3YTMADcwsEGZDg-2B-2FDNGEz2qfxp4dU2pqyy6eA8F7KBxws1JV5ZNWsA0d8QRs-2Fj9YIDqqBBuKc9gqhVjia4SJRb5kGt8V5oy1zmAayUE0jec5HN66ZxMtEZnYgWuGE-3D)). > **Questions:** How can a pope or other church leader nourish unity in a body of believers whose members come from radically different backgrounds, life experiences and perspectives? What responsibility do lay people have to nurture "the unity of the Spirit"? Why is that important? **Philippians 3:7-11***Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. More than that, I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead.* (For context, read [Philippians 3:2-11](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxzNGX396sVFOaUcnbldjl-2BD205bYvreAtYpzLsGDj3rDxEtHkmvCDv20KLVbRlbwuvMYL_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF0ZAlUTdvHKiLEe28ZdHy8ZeCLMsr5ox-2Bg-2BXyQM-2FTb4IFOvEKDBhUojnHilWy9qya6w0kyCWoe7UCU6vD-2FwYcNQVdVIMa3ZSdCvg1pNfw9CvE4kJplYQOQPdEDYRt4nbmiAWATPnex-2FF4p3hadiCmkCaswm8CsV0pMfQVYIMJHcKVuVb7-2FouzYh-2Bie5kJDW2rRvN-2F4lellf87CtYLPMP8TE-3D).) When Paul's opponents questioned his qualifications, he felt forced to defend his leadership, first citing his ethnic, religious and moral identity and experiences (vv. 4-6). But all of that meant nothing, he said, compared to his having come to know Christ. Peter urged his readers, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). Pope Leo XIV said, "our first task is to teach what it means to know Jesus Christ and to bear witness to our closeness to the Lord. This comes first: to communicate the beauty of the faith, the beauty and joy of knowing Jesus." He also said that a bishop "must proclaim Jesus Christ and live the faith so that the faithful see in his witness an incentive to them to want to be an ever more active part of the Church that Jesus Christ himself founded." > **Questions:** What is the difference between knowing facts about someone and knowing the individual personally? Why is meeting Christ personally better than any other talents, achievements or personal traits a person could list on a resumé or on a job application? How can we grow to know Jesus better? **Acts 1:21-26***[Peter said,] "So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us -- one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection." So they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed and said, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place." And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was added to the eleven apostles.* (For context, read [Acts 1:15-26](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxSDOKyP-2BTOlJTbwGSjk3b5cEaGd5h7Y3JgQpbro2IGW6rGNEEgdEHtYFAOvEzs7SFVLcx_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPFyCeg91VPbDvVL3ZOflUL2PzngbZ4RQS7-2BZanLImKMJBlbjCIvSHOjOUvttTP7UDZ-2B6VZQIE7LeOwZ2mn7uHjuxtfuErQoE5HM92soTrFZ6AFeEbH3sPfJpNtPgjyZw59NXzg8Yqmrnrdgt1XGP-2B7UPYUcPLzw5xEnXAKNxt3ixnJWuw73cSyolmgHlFi2szDCJVj0NZE8PGB4Yp6QT-2FTqI-3D).) After Jesus ascended to the right hand of God, 120 disciples met to pray and wait for the gift of the Holy Spirit Jesus had promised to send them (v. 15). While they waited, they considered how to fill the position of apostle that had been vacated after Judas died. > **Questions:** What essential qualifications did Peter identify in the person who should fill that position? How did the disciples approach the selection process? Think about one of the people chosen for particular tasks in the Bible. How did they receive their "assignments"? What were their qualifications? When have you relied on the Holy Spirit to guide your own decisions? **Matthew 16:15-18***He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter [Petros], and on this rock [petra] I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it."* (For context, read [Matthew 16:13-19](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDW-2BYzhlJBcky0eALegFVQQdxhVzG2Z6m9vEYVrMNwGVkVG71_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF-2F7ansYLb3nF6hgtRZ-2BnDbkD0mRurMOp8fd3ZWYZYXW7p1btONYpoWe35rbtIxgw53lRhSfLaU2T7CKtoodjHTb62Ra6NOtg6pq3dEtnC5SdxSYgzxT41CtpmCfX9EiQ96Gky6tMbMHrIoUmzxEhYREFOYX2eJaqCnTxaLmhYSug1WjuWWcMYFPQhTVfjWoAdUWvkc-2BUmsbbmO67slnVX8Q-3D).) Jesus asked the disciples how people were answering the survey question, "Who is the Son of Man?" (vv. 13-14) Then he wanted to know how they would answer the question. Peter declared, "You are the Messiah [the Christ, the anointed One], the Son of the living God!" Discovering Jesus' identity led to Simon's own change, from the name Simon (meaning *hearing*, signifying "God hears" or "one who hears God"), to Peter (meaning a rock, stone or pebble). Using a turn of a phrase, Jesus explained that he would build his church not on Peter himself (who proved to be somewhat less than reliable on various occasions), but on the rock of Peter's confession, "You are the Christ!" [In his firs](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3DMJ_L_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF-2F3X8-2BiXslbp4WfjSXsHnLI-2BbQkTO28ituU5vlVWEeQsBH2u-2FhCxTQCArZwFTIs5ytkRA5lwAcWBEKokhITj4l-2BlzHw-2Bl6HwFgF0jnm2uLoLu15C5-2B3VR8BBvuh2gwhm4w6vN915E2xiu0SBDqjfst5nxy6Astg0wDPKGPwc9YpmqiPrAWS12vqY9x-2F47mL4gczYNLw2JAQeK-2FbGs4BX29w-3D)[t Ma](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3DzpjB_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF2Lip9Ih-2FWzyoXEq9Cg-2FbpdCQKY9giLKPdawIF-2B4X8c4MCtgzKd0SquSZi3-2BFmhAPdl1phXafL7x93peHjSaMSvRfzs-2BGpWbvt8H3DsAHBf9NvHAhm4LRqWj4QlnBAoIE8MrS630yGk1wtws3TbmS3xQi8j-2FBm-2BgNGl09sqFjIIJKHjIqptRgob4W8N-2B3a2JIRSWseMhRO3JnM5LlUIW7xw-3D)[ss](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3D0WMg_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF8n3U5JlfJ9-2BXuPN2tv0Go1Xh9xoriOq1I1YGJaZca2PBl-2BtS8oNhuAs63P8IGKHNV2rDUCKcwmomZiHz25HZwIsKrbjLbP2-2FnPAtDCEbYdCnJiS3-2F6Zy20x2GcFZu50jTpsozk-2BSa7LtzPxsLn8BlX36N9tsdKJKOVz9OyL831BXG8hq03PbvRSN4FBeVYmPFxT-2BB72Ul7unJhEJVRJXHw-3D), Pope Leo XIV said, "Even today there are many settings in which the Christian faith is considered absurd, meant for weak people or stupid people, settings where other securities are preferred, like technology or money or success or power or pleasure ... settings in which Jesus ... is reduced to a kind of charismatic leader or a superman. ... It's essential that we too repeat with Peter, 'You are the Christ, the son of the living God!'" > **Questions:** What biblical figures can you name who were given new names at an important point in their lives, and what did their name changes signify? How does the Bible use name changes? When entering a new season of life, have you ever chosen a new name? If so, why did you do so, and why did you pick that name? What new name do you think Jesus would give you in heaven, and why ([Revelation 2:17](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxL76PkgLnT0ZbDRKTq4JIBNv3c5qrCWvPnTeQvoO68igo3E1YiUY6nMv6SiUq48zBSRJ4_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPFz6WAhmGwgORD-2Bby3AXrDpfZFNRpIkyAlkdD0AdsokexGu-2FkG59gmNPnwWyK-2BEspphWniI-2Fcj-2BWVfnOf5C7VJ-2B0i32iKuD09HrHfokFUCtJQ0FDTDKCMHm-2BqqM6e7Th5I9BBH-2B6p1SSX5Pvnhs18-2BOAdWEYb822RpWm-2FeYs9G73T-2FiALYoCYsg6GIjwU5PswS6Qbnu3eXQTRDtZO0hK4-2BKU-3D))? **For Further Discussion** 1. Respond to this, from Pope Leo XIV's first homily to the cardinals the day after his election as pope: "St Ignatius of Antioch ... who was led in chains to this city, the place of his impending sacrifice, wrote to the Christians here [in Rome], 'Then I will truly be a disciple of Jesus Christ, when the world no longer sees my body.' Ignatius was speaking about being devoured by wild beasts in the arena, and so it happened, but his words apply more generally to an indispensable commitment for all those in the church who exercise a ministry of authority: it's to move aside, so that Christ remains; to make oneself small, so that Christ may be known and glorified; to spend oneself ... so that all may have the opportunity to know him and to love him." 2. The pope is one of the five most recognized brands in the world, "right up there with Mickey Mouse," said TWW team member Mary Sells. What do you think should be the pope's (or other Christian leader's) brand identity and brand message for the world? 3. Consider this: Pope Leo XIV is the youngest of three Prevost brothers. For a variety of reasons, many leaders in families and in history have been firstborn sons. But the Bible contains several narratives that break that pattern: Jacob, his son Joseph, Moses, David and others. TWW team member Mary Sells writes, "The arc of the Jesus story is about the unexpected ones being the important ones -- Jesus himself being a humble baby born in a backwater town instead of in a palace in the capital city. So, a boy from a 'normal' family in Chicago shouldn't be a far stretch to become pope." When have you been surprised by someone you didn't expect had "the right stuff" who became an effective leader? What assumptions have you had to reevaluate as a result? 4. Discuss this, from TWW team member Frank Ramirez: "Just as people tend to see themselves -- or their opponents -- in the pope, making the pontiff something he may not be altogether, so too I think people see Jesus as a mirror -- they see themselves, and their priorities, uppermost. I always feel like if Jesus seems to be agreeing with me altogether too much I need to take a step backward until the gospel looks more challenging again." **Responding to the News** Discuss how you can intentionally work to strengthen the unity of your fellowship of faith by committing to love one another and by joining together in one purpose and mission. **Prayer** O God, who calls us to join together to declare that Jesus is the anointed One, the Son of the living God, unite us in love and common purpose to bring good news to those who need it most, energized by our having met and been transformed by Christ, and empowered by your Holy Spirit. Amen. ****Copyright 2025 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=PoRJOYl773S00Z83_fKuBcn-0dOTs_2E7sIIPkKbiGloMDAwdTAwMBMfzcSn8FS39prUmj2H1QP1nMMIJJZZqP34pPAYfSgg4l8LVKnHDlfWRsuib3X4R3WgQTe38-Clq8-0QiTemlpz7dXeBPy1iBiq8xHMuBLTZFc8DT6QwS_p-hasUVRuCYTpbyAlnhbCfCd3QkS1ADO6LjgXl1vgK35fb0UEvCO-fKWDSvvC8aLLvdUhR1slNZ6BYLGZxAdQ7gKiGTPbpVki4tg_GklJMv5sdjclYs99iAzCve85hJhp1Wf-T4o86HfQd_0sR9w72Gvj21CZW7hc8iT-17pgknlvS3_Jn4SHgpjby1TWz8FpetNi2APDkqbaT08iA8EFENIqrX1qHhnAUzhXu1MN3HY7xWsZNK_gK7S1kqkfN8thUG0pBvZns8AfsE8_pRPddJeEPT9dzfARRKc9HwYzjkRWtSsDiKaFGXiOLWwpcPUVy8MuHRktCl7z7tXaGP9Rl9f2e0xg2xJ_J2GmfHZJFM5Re43eylBnv_DWaWEd_JiL_XL4zC9rEt9KACIyc8wHUdcE7drU85A-54y2kYl_vfjn8ZQdRdPn7ocB5cZKGnFULohGADKtgE04oNLrZcz5YZpXgDSw-D0=) <div>Dear Class Members, The convening of the Roman Catholic conclave of cardinals earlier this month resulted in the election of Robert Francis Prevost as the new leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. The event suggested themes of decision-making, naming ourselves, and unity and diversity in the church. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> 'We Have a Pope!' Seagulls, Smoke and Synodality The Wired Word for the Week of May 18, 2025 In the News "2 minutes and 22 seconds of baby seagull and white smoke!! habemus papam," exclaimed a user on X. Just after 6 p.m. local time May 8, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBb1SkmzKZOuyLl8c3MDIsdGFLYHngv2-2BVwidGbrpalOKVzx7CJoFY4ZTYHN7HMwM6WnnWn6vDzaPSrft3y18MRDxarMu-2BB1Mzb07EEDdanVC6FEAZPF48Gq-2F8UL1VV0Ht8LVKkMCLiKSvuUDyWZFxKJCjEK7w5Cp0SZ7Y3Yrrj-2Fj4sU5ujQc4E5Tg8htbeO1A-3D-3DjxE6\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF5YUovjBTEQhMgqRb8HMoYr2c8x76563XIU-2FDLGUHXH2g95M3ia-2F0qzcKNp5xx1Hi8q68QuT1WylKl2VPWIMKwwVP-2F8d9fyCVG3uI-2BOeAQmCzEYMeRQY23tNAsp-2BTDcEBgbXzbi8HuEECGW6hr9Fhhux5UMKJWRHwMPmLmQ5xQ9pMZWDfVjmpxjAkbXsY-2BM8673kZ8ZCpuQKZfCfdFxz9-2FE-3D">a tiny gray seagull chick had appeared</a> with its mother on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, moments before white smoke began pouring out of its chimney, signaling that a new pope had been chosen on the fourth vote of the cardinals meeting in a conclave below. The crowd assembled at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City reacted with jubilant shouts and applause. When an observer asked what a group of seagulls is called, a journalist responded that the collective noun for seagulls is a colony, though they may also be a squabble, a scold or a hover; but he supposed the cardinals would prefer the pastoral term, "flock" of seagulls. Robert Francis Prevost, 69, has been chosen as the 267th pope, the first from the United States of America and the first from the Augustinian order. His identity made him an unexpected yet ultimately understandable candidate for his new role as leader of a vast global enterprise encompassing 1.4 billion Catholics. The grandson of a Creole couple from New Orleans who are described as black or mulatto in historical records, Prevost was born in Chicago in 1955 to parents of Spanish and Franco-Italian descent, has Haitian and Jewish connections in his family tree, and grew up in a family of immigrants. His brother, retired Catholic school principal John Prevost, recalled that Robert would play priest as a kid, putting a tablecloth on their mother's ironing board so they could go to Mass, and even reciting prayers in Latin. "One of the moms across the street ... said to him, 'You're going to be the first American pope,'" John added. Whether her prophetic words or the appearance of a flock of seagulls at the moment of Prevost's selection as the new pope qualify as omens, who knows? Prevost spent 20 years as a missionary in Peru, where he became a citizen in 2015. He served the Church on three continents (in his native Chicago in North America, as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, South America, and as close friend of Pope Francis and prefect of the Decastery for Bishops at the Vatican in Europe). It's been reported that as the cardinals deliberated prior to extending the call to Prevost, two words kept coming up: "continuity" and "unity." Apparently there was strong consensus that the new pope should continue to move in the direction Pope Francis had led the Church, reaching out to "the least of these," standing with the poor and amplifying the voices of those who are often dismissed and unheard in society. At the same time, the leaders recognized that the new pontiff would need to deal with the tensions within the Church between traditionalist and progressive elements that threaten the unity of the community of faith. It is thought that because of his unique background, identity, understated style and global experience, Prevost might be able to articulate a message all Catholics could embrace. Pope Leo XIV delivered his first address to the faithful in Italian, Spanish and Latin from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, offering "the peace of the Risen Christ, a disarming and humble and preserving peace ... [which] comes from God, who loves all of us, without any limits or conditions. ... Evil will not prevail. We are all in the hands of God. Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward. We are disciples of Christ, Christ goes before us, and the world needs his light. ... "We have to look together how to be a missionary Church, building bridges, dialogue, always open to receiving with open arms for everyone, like this square, open to all, to all who need our charity, our presence, dialogue, love," the pontiff continued. "We want to be a synodal church, walking and always seeking peace, charity, closeness, especially to those who are suffering." The description of the Church as "synodal" is a reference to the practice of listening "first of all to the Holy Spirit," and also to each other, as a way to affirm that lay Catholics are as much a part of the Church as are the clergy, although with different responsibilities.. More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIx82AqyGiKiFftQa05DgodbOfnX4wYoI08YkTTBGFqEONicSwtn8jMuQaDVN9x2Bg7NAACqPxeBVLyP3DvRoIcWb27-2BQDHBT7XJ-2F2RKhj1UsweYmmpqHxwchzKA5N-2B1bw-3D-3DBIyl\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF8e31-2Ba9jhItpmcARL8dGW6QlhAiEiwHqE6-2FktjSjFOvv1XWJ2RA1MbPnMpnbzZ0DAf6tcCjnIqAnyDShsc58uAhzRpTLonNZeJ6JrqSZOzdsLr8JMRBKy7hP7CR-2FVZLW01i4nRB-2FL9OQrd4XU5SASuytiK5UaxCtcYwaW0Mkcm0D4V8-2BuKaVW6chzMZLUVUIVkkQSvbf6X0IXBH87OqQHw-3D">Biography of Pope Leo XIV, Born Robert Francis Prevost. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIx82AqyGiKiFftQa05DgodbOfnX4wYoI08YkTTBGFqEONicSwtn8jMuQaDVN9x2Bg7NAACqPxeBVLyP3DvRoIcWb27-2BQDHBT7XJ-2F2RKhj1UsweYmmpqHxwchzKA5N-2B1bw-3D-3DDpz6\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF2dykMGd7p8ovaxZsG-2BtGTWHoBKiSePXKkssb8agHAavaEYCDZEQ8hy3pUGuYzXWk6Wk8NVUfquqNTvDwF7MZzKf8jgqyyNHk4oyotOaETxnDaghgcl47FuuWFTdLw6qP96-2B-2Fw8SliVslRqcPRDeRCILJgkPJa05Rpz-2BwuuLv21duSLCfZOGh7ju0Bx10KRSizAjy-2BIV3dJCQ3rtweD-2Ftd8-3D">Vatican News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPN6H9bXG5FD2vf7eZP7qLxKI1lsXyZuws7M4nlWiSKe14Flb-2B1TqVSzOR0ODJpqdaQ-3D-3DeOQm\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF5I78EmTN3mkHrF-2FnfGYr6NOAVSCAnCMgcPA1IquX27aY9vvFenNMsUxD3wBUVZ9tQHo03hDahbp9BDGPVsveGP6uxOln9wicNZ-2Fhqdujp5XDCJbd-2FEuEAQJ7Qs3aXSrHxXbIm6F9lUwVdYmN76Q7nPm2mv5tWjHMw9Olj6UjyPWs4GvQHOw1H4Gu01RT0vyZirmwEpOjRo-2FzZeDecKNBIs-3D">'Peace Be With You All,' Pope Leo XIV Says in First Speech. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPN6H9bXG5FD2vf7eZP7qLxKI1lsXyZuws7M4nlWiSKe14Flb-2B1TqVSzOR0ODJpqdaQ-3D-3DXgo\_\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPFzDvwDgV5FeyxP93fuPzBesXzA-2B-2FKCQVunh-2FUiuDS3lhzyR-2BFpJImwI3wM4Z4H5ZYxKNx5RIqSxT2n0jhwUyAIoRnxMXuY6ebK9XYaRLhBsvGMzDNhWUpvHbzV670hYC06LNkyWJSnSEytD3DCl2AjfeM5sVxZolLjbmcEHBrDIN0QxTFgxt8xkBCZspEiZ7yb1Wgx2HS7Kr1qFTGBaurUg-3D">BBC</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3DdS8m\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF4kfb7acNYOVKgM6zZfRO-2BpdOy9SH8q-2F7L5T7Y-2B9HttxtyiHLukJLvDVaxcuPJnaRCO5c-2BvrVQvrw5RITTRsj-2BVE6troclxogHAOgeewkpBcgBPjGlVIsv7A3-2BvxoVkmEMtvFpKMi1TY81BGBVftmEO09VFH0Q4KDTU91-2BIRSofWRCxeHS3WmvzP6RLIJg8u3K0uMlX7ZOYXeOepPDHYt3A-3D">Full Homily: First Mass of Pope Leo XIV (English Version) (Video 11:44). </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3D0Hvo\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF7rvochchm4NvtqFaoPGavQIe7-2BZQRS7Fc5pH1VmaWnvxSH3zDwmGHLKa2yUeW3sGUJYCvQ5YwUPT8E8c79E0guawePRIXb59FnKYSXbayDEvJcXyFa4nWexrw1q3aYeIkBpGGfTELb8Rnp5dDH5LghPXq-2FFqyEiMKXW-2Br3kH3Pp51LVgpBpRMQG1rIKjPbpp55YO8LD17WQKQH8mj4z4Zw-3D">EWTN</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGFsmB-2FGohZXdnsY-2BXAJekVGqdtV2-2Fcr0OJxsjCTP6epSHIKiX9-2BPBKBFWdBVQ8HYQ-3D-3DEAsf\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPFz6vaKKs4JLsWe0On-2BQYxGG44gHBaDCLrtg7vB8tIp9SaLrdQryo-2FoyoisR0ylVudpsT4DKxKOpq5iDn8S8r-2BSHhF10fQFqoZFAN3fgw7v0ZvBzHK7j5DiGSwje5hTC3INv7BpCR64U91OraJAuk-2BrKsUFrm0IYAztBVW-2BoK1Jbi3BGfu73dSPOq9WrybHKuygf1XYs-2F-2B7mzWOJEdfvRbt4-3D">May 8, 2025. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGFsmB-2FGohZXdnsY-2BXAJekVGqdtV2-2Fcr0OJxsjCTP6epSHIKiX9-2BPBKBFWdBVQ8HYQ-3D-3DDsdo\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF1Pl8HuWLBs00-2F8tD0E6iCB4u3VMeo95sSZwQn4ll4J8gBrI-2BDN7N9Eg6AtewEz54cKhg4aMKeLY9K6UZ2-2Bo-2BBJWy1Us2vfF59syk2GFm-2F1egRftWJBozdpM01p3EJZHTmI2QWuOh1St9h1FcG50wLc3EHSwAiX1TEKc1pCSrtEPDDprAHm2LPdEvS6osJA9vdhNZxqC9-2FBIscJjVXbhacI-3D">Letters from an American</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2BC0tpSfDG9D-2BTFLhkzO3rVr4PLvZiVBNzFqPo4xZ2huw-3D-3D0ucg\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF-2FhIwO9tNlGO5Jy7bE18U1sbV8U2t29A3QOPat82doD-2FRpY4dMWgrEwanbxVf6XH7IgZsoye873-2FZamKECzE1Kq7cfm-2FQ2yy5tF6umofmgmlg1Y15etZg9YiBBlyUhmuuhn3IivllRsivPA9gzs0NiiJEyFiRxlqiV82Zy-2BLppqPPqvmxud5amjkasEeKoC2S-2Bncf8ddFG-2BpLANRAnAO4r0-3D">Brooks and Capehart on Pope Leo XIV's Potential Impact on U.S. Culture and Politics (Video 10:44). </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2BC0tpSfDG9D-2BTFLhkzO3rVr4PLvZiVBNzFqPo4xZ2huw-3D-3DtUbm\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF1YdachWjhE1acvXCHL0xqrcijWzU0M4N3PpIheyox5xZc7r-2BsBVkV1yOLgZEF82tqnwIvpm0ofJRKLNTqlB3v0T-2BxrbUssuphbJEM54-2BzSWFb9qMcEbgMbcOaC4ww2nWIaPlsNbz3fmJM2g8iQ1mBZsGau0bFl7omxWluL1ZuY4NFrB8TESZ-2BmAYW5gckh7clm1mIuheJyb44yxcVdVKXE-3D">PBS NewsHour</a> Applying the News Story Pope Leo XIV said he chose the papal name in recognition of the similarities of our own time with those of Pope Leo XIII (pope from 1878 to 1903), who spoke to problems raised by industrialized society. Citing recent developments in artificial intelligence, Leo XIV stressed that the Church's social teaching provides a strong "defense of human dignity, justice and labor." In his social encyclical, Rerum Novarum, Leo XIII stressed the biblical teaching that humans are made in the image of God, and as such have certain entitlements, including the right of workers to a living wage that would allow them to live in dignity. His criticism of Marxist class warfare and unregulated capitalism and embrace of economic policies that work for the common good undergird the Catholic social doctrine to which Leo XIV is heir. The Big Questions 1. What qualities do you look for in a pastor? Why are those traits important to you? 2. Would you want a pope or other church leader to be "perfect"? Why or why not? 3. In times of social upheaval, what can a spiritual leader do to nurture unity and peace in a community of faith? How can lay persons come alongside such a leader to move toward that goal? 4. When might the country of origin of a pope be particularly significant? What does it mean to you that this pontiff has dual citizenship (in Peru and the United States)? How might his life story and origin create expectation? 5. What name would you choose for yourself if you were called to a new ministry, and why? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Psalm 133:1 How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity! (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxkxWnH75PDKI-2FLOvwz4PjDHUqDBVp-2FzH4z7FzJxkKfZdO4JS7R14eMJc74cA2hnssHALV\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF9k69s3ZPBZyTdQerxbVIAzyuXt2HH10ptSD0VPEsF7S8eqHZIWh7hfx1BQWORPIDv0LIEUsgd2Fg1dP0lg4W5U1Vuwg28PtANVuJNtVo9Cuhak-2BzAB0RLBezacIpON64-2BjDr7doz-2B4uHuB5TZL-2Fb7lXmsJIqAN9nmx6VyK1NZuDXY28gowFazbvqcx35yPQ5qZWKpf2BkQuzLqfIhQfuQc-3D">Psalm 133:1-3</a>.) Before David was crowned king over all Israel, the tribes fought among themselves, each seeking advantages for their own group. When they finally united under David's leadership, the land experienced a time of rest, peace and refreshment (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxrB1bmKx4W8JgtOp9FCam1l9c74zpjcFdTiR4FujIBfqqlSfbz9RzQhx3ak0-2Fhn9uXGVf2El-2FDjX16QVdGj5nkQ-3D-3DfurI\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF73NA9W1fj5I82vUoJuHBCRgBpYLN1y4K0i1ZwryoifD2Q-2FlszGeX0M-2FqUBS4nXEBd2ibPsHVVuuYz-2BVD6CeyiGqiIPMTYd85Z9ludFg09ShRboYyxu21u-2F0GjXTaegXEnUHzmJL-2FdeJgD68ggQo-2BrzeBqqJM57DVgXAwPfrdhM-2Fou7uPXrhxCalrGMIsFETNIB9b6F1oMXJn0K7eMfBwd8-3D">1 Chronicles 12:3</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxrB1bmKx4W8JgtOp9FCam1l9c74zpjcFdTiR4FujIBfqqlSfbz9RzQhx3ak0-2Fhn9uXGVf2El-2FDjX16QVdGj5nkQ-3D-3Dakek\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF0-2B3dZoDgVKgQNrGm2IRGxFCabwvI1zEqhOfF9DHUoVdeX8s0M7vYNcgK0ZjNkW22s-2FhGlRVTg4-2FQpOSix7mnToIAnQxpLS7muXtcsAqV4CHnDWgozNP89YEyGkOQYi1mqfXJAaw86sHqbkevRRJ-2BxdRSLrBfW0w5j1GT1a-2BTuBubAMBPTUh1rBWTr4gjxHswy-2FCa281oMn9NvOEwiG2rqc-3D">8-40</a>). The Hebrew word for unity used here is yachad, which means "together" or "oneness." In a 2023 interview, then-bishop Prevost said, "Some misconstrue unity as uniformity: 'You have to be the same as we are.' No. This cannot be." The psalmist compares unity to precious anointing oil poured on the head of Aaron (v. 2) when he was installed as high priest, the person who represented the entire nation in his body when he went before God. The book of Hebrews identifies Jesus as "the apostle and high priest of our confession" (Hebrews 3:1-2), and as such, he is the one who represents and unites all the people of God in his body in the presence of God. Prevost's episcopal motto, taken from a sermon about church unity by St. Augustine, In Illo uno unum, means "In the One, we are one," or "although we Christians are many, in the one Christ, we are one." When Paul was in prison because of his declaration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, he urged the believers at Ephesus to cherish, cultivate and strive to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx-2F9xuITdvxpNxFuzW6j6ZGK2DK2SCGVoFIsOtzPO-2FQJ1Q-2FS8VYrs-2Flo49FY7FehcmqNNK\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF9dc4MVl19WODe8ScxyjasobZkJFWKBwWOUekAZQy-2BZ3VMQHRnrdH4MaN-2F7SM-2B3z-2FkT3N7cv8NQGtTMbKKt1x8-2Bmhf3YTMADcwsEGZDg-2B-2FDNGEz2qfxp4dU2pqyy6eA8F7KBxws1JV5ZNWsA0d8QRs-2Fj9YIDqqBBuKc9gqhVjia4SJRb5kGt8V5oy1zmAayUE0jec5HN66ZxMtEZnYgWuGE-3D">Ephesians 4:1-6</a>). <blockquote> Questions: How can a pope or other church leader nourish unity in a body of believers whose members come from radically different backgrounds, life experiences and perspectives? What responsibility do lay people have to nurture "the unity of the Spirit"? Why is that important? </blockquote> Philippians 3:7-11 Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. More than that, I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxzNGX396sVFOaUcnbldjl-2BD205bYvreAtYpzLsGDj3rDxEtHkmvCDv20KLVbRlbwuvMYL\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF0ZAlUTdvHKiLEe28ZdHy8ZeCLMsr5ox-2Bg-2BXyQM-2FTb4IFOvEKDBhUojnHilWy9qya6w0kyCWoe7UCU6vD-2FwYcNQVdVIMa3ZSdCvg1pNfw9CvE4kJplYQOQPdEDYRt4nbmiAWATPnex-2FF4p3hadiCmkCaswm8CsV0pMfQVYIMJHcKVuVb7-2FouzYh-2Bie5kJDW2rRvN-2F4lellf87CtYLPMP8TE-3D">Philippians 3:2-11</a>.) When Paul's opponents questioned his qualifications, he felt forced to defend his leadership, first citing his ethnic, religious and moral identity and experiences (vv. 4-6). But all of that meant nothing, he said, compared to his having come to know Christ. Peter urged his readers, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). Pope Leo XIV said, "our first task is to teach what it means to know Jesus Christ and to bear witness to our closeness to the Lord. This comes first: to communicate the beauty of the faith, the beauty and joy of knowing Jesus." He also said that a bishop "must proclaim Jesus Christ and live the faith so that the faithful see in his witness an incentive to them to want to be an ever more active part of the Church that Jesus Christ himself founded." <blockquote> Questions: What is the difference between knowing facts about someone and knowing the individual personally? Why is meeting Christ personally better than any other talents, achievements or personal traits a person could list on a resumé or on a job application? How can we grow to know Jesus better? </blockquote> Acts 1:21-26 [Peter said,] "So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us -- one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection." So they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed and said, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place." And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was added to the eleven apostles. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxSDOKyP-2BTOlJTbwGSjk3b5cEaGd5h7Y3JgQpbro2IGW6rGNEEgdEHtYFAOvEzs7SFVLcx\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPFyCeg91VPbDvVL3ZOflUL2PzngbZ4RQS7-2BZanLImKMJBlbjCIvSHOjOUvttTP7UDZ-2B6VZQIE7LeOwZ2mn7uHjuxtfuErQoE5HM92soTrFZ6AFeEbH3sPfJpNtPgjyZw59NXzg8Yqmrnrdgt1XGP-2B7UPYUcPLzw5xEnXAKNxt3ixnJWuw73cSyolmgHlFi2szDCJVj0NZE8PGB4Yp6QT-2FTqI-3D">Acts 1:15-26</a>.) After Jesus ascended to the right hand of God, 120 disciples met to pray and wait for the gift of the Holy Spirit Jesus had promised to send them (v. 15). While they waited, they considered how to fill the position of apostle that had been vacated after Judas died. <blockquote> Questions: What essential qualifications did Peter identify in the person who should fill that position? How did the disciples approach the selection process? Think about one of the people chosen for particular tasks in the Bible. How did they receive their "assignments"? What were their qualifications? When have you relied on the Holy Spirit to guide your own decisions? </blockquote> Matthew 16:15-18 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter [Petros], and on this rock [petra] I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDW-2BYzhlJBcky0eALegFVQQdxhVzG2Z6m9vEYVrMNwGVkVG71\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF-2F7ansYLb3nF6hgtRZ-2BnDbkD0mRurMOp8fd3ZWYZYXW7p1btONYpoWe35rbtIxgw53lRhSfLaU2T7CKtoodjHTb62Ra6NOtg6pq3dEtnC5SdxSYgzxT41CtpmCfX9EiQ96Gky6tMbMHrIoUmzxEhYREFOYX2eJaqCnTxaLmhYSug1WjuWWcMYFPQhTVfjWoAdUWvkc-2BUmsbbmO67slnVX8Q-3D">Matthew 16:13-19</a>.) Jesus asked the disciples how people were answering the survey question, "Who is the Son of Man?" (vv. 13-14) Then he wanted to know how they would answer the question. Peter declared, "You are the Messiah [the Christ, the anointed One], the Son of the living God!" Discovering Jesus' identity led to Simon's own change, from the name Simon (meaning hearing, signifying "God hears" or "one who hears God"), to Peter (meaning a rock, stone or pebble). Using a turn of a phrase, Jesus explained that he would build his church not on Peter himself (who proved to be somewhat less than reliable on various occasions), but on the rock of Peter's confession, "You are the Christ!" <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3DMJ\_L\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF-2F3X8-2BiXslbp4WfjSXsHnLI-2BbQkTO28ituU5vlVWEeQsBH2u-2FhCxTQCArZwFTIs5ytkRA5lwAcWBEKokhITj4l-2BlzHw-2Bl6HwFgF0jnm2uLoLu15C5-2B3VR8BBvuh2gwhm4w6vN915E2xiu0SBDqjfst5nxy6Astg0wDPKGPwc9YpmqiPrAWS12vqY9x-2F47mL4gczYNLw2JAQeK-2FbGs4BX29w-3D">In his firs</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3DzpjB\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF2Lip9Ih-2FWzyoXEq9Cg-2FbpdCQKY9giLKPdawIF-2B4X8c4MCtgzKd0SquSZi3-2BFmhAPdl1phXafL7x93peHjSaMSvRfzs-2BGpWbvt8H3DsAHBf9NvHAhm4LRqWj4QlnBAoIE8MrS630yGk1wtws3TbmS3xQi8j-2FBm-2BgNGl09sqFjIIJKHjIqptRgob4W8N-2B3a2JIRSWseMhRO3JnM5LlUIW7xw-3D">t Ma</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq1-2FYTfMlkVMq9hG0eB23eVboQHH-2F3oN1qklicky2WJ5HTg-3D-3D0WMg\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPF8n3U5JlfJ9-2BXuPN2tv0Go1Xh9xoriOq1I1YGJaZca2PBl-2BtS8oNhuAs63P8IGKHNV2rDUCKcwmomZiHz25HZwIsKrbjLbP2-2FnPAtDCEbYdCnJiS3-2F6Zy20x2GcFZu50jTpsozk-2BSa7LtzPxsLn8BlX36N9tsdKJKOVz9OyL831BXG8hq03PbvRSN4FBeVYmPFxT-2BB72Ul7unJhEJVRJXHw-3D">ss</a>, Pope Leo XIV said, "Even today there are many settings in which the Christian faith is considered absurd, meant for weak people or stupid people, settings where other securities are preferred, like technology or money or success or power or pleasure ... settings in which Jesus ... is reduced to a kind of charismatic leader or a superman. ... It's essential that we too repeat with Peter, 'You are the Christ, the son of the living God!'" <blockquote> Questions: What biblical figures can you name who were given new names at an important point in their lives, and what did their name changes signify? How does the Bible use name changes? When entering a new season of life, have you ever chosen a new name? If so, why did you do so, and why did you pick that name? What new name do you think Jesus would give you in heaven, and why (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxL76PkgLnT0ZbDRKTq4JIBNv3c5qrCWvPnTeQvoO68igo3E1YiUY6nMv6SiUq48zBSRJ4\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTOb3FSdL-2BzKfCepuQsv8H7Aq84kWiQfObYp2QxFYPrxybsGBa8s-2BhYvZG15qeyPFz6WAhmGwgORD-2Bby3AXrDpfZFNRpIkyAlkdD0AdsokexGu-2FkG59gmNPnwWyK-2BEspphWniI-2Fcj-2BWVfnOf5C7VJ-2B0i32iKuD09HrHfokFUCtJQ0FDTDKCMHm-2BqqM6e7Th5I9BBH-2B6p1SSX5Pvnhs18-2BOAdWEYb822RpWm-2FeYs9G73T-2FiALYoCYsg6GIjwU5PswS6Qbnu3eXQTRDtZO0hK4-2BKU-3D">Revelation 2:17</a>)? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. Respond to this, from Pope Leo XIV's first homily to the cardinals the day after his election as pope: "St Ignatius of Antioch ... who was led in chains to this city, the place of his impending sacrifice, wrote to the Christians here [in Rome], 'Then I will truly be a disciple of Jesus Christ, when the world no longer sees my body.' Ignatius was speaking about being devoured by wild beasts in the arena, and so it happened, but his words apply more generally to an indispensable commitment for all those in the church who exercise a ministry of authority: it's to move aside, so that Christ remains; to make oneself small, so that Christ may be known and glorified; to spend oneself ... so that all may have the opportunity to know him and to love him." 2. The pope is one of the five most recognized brands in the world, "right up there with Mickey Mouse," said TWW team member Mary Sells. What do you think should be the pope's (or other Christian leader's) brand identity and brand message for the world? 3. Consider this: Pope Leo XIV is the youngest of three Prevost brothers. For a variety of reasons, many leaders in families and in history have been firstborn sons. But the Bible contains several narratives that break that pattern: Jacob, his son Joseph, Moses, David and others. TWW team member Mary Sells writes, "The arc of the Jesus story is about the unexpected ones being the important ones -- Jesus himself being a humble baby born in a backwater town instead of in a palace in the capital city. So, a boy from a 'normal' family in Chicago shouldn't be a far stretch to become pope." When have you been surprised by someone you didn't expect had "the right stuff" who became an effective leader? What assumptions have you had to reevaluate as a result? 4. Discuss this, from TWW team member Frank Ramirez: "Just as people tend to see themselves -- or their opponents -- in the pope, making the pontiff something he may not be altogether, so too I think people see Jesus as a mirror -- they see themselves, and their priorities, uppermost. I always feel like if Jesus seems to be agreeing with me altogether too much I need to take a step backward until the gospel looks more challenging again." Responding to the News Discuss how you can intentionally work to strengthen the unity of your fellowship of faith by committing to love one another and by joining together in one purpose and mission. Prayer O God, who calls us to join together to declare that Jesus is the anointed One, the Son of the living God, unite us in love and common purpose to bring good news to those who need it most, energized by our having met and been transformed by Christ, and empowered by your Holy Spirit. Amen. Copyright 2025 Communication Resources <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user\_id=14323725&data=PoRJOYl773S00Z83\_fKuBcn-0dOTs\_2E7sIIPkKbiGloMDAwdTAwMBMfzcSn8FS39prUmj2H1QP1nMMIJJZZqP34pPAYfSgg4l8LVKnHDlfWRsuib3X4R3WgQTe38-Clq8-0QiTemlpz7dXeBPy1iBiq8xHMuBLTZFc8DT6QwS\_p-hasUVRuCYTpbyAlnhbCfCd3QkS1ADO6LjgXl1vgK35fb0UEvCO-fKWDSvvC8aLLvdUhR1slNZ6BYLGZxAdQ7gKiGTPbpVki4tg\_GklJMv5sdjclYs99iAzCve85hJhp1Wf-T4o86HfQd\_0sR9w72Gvj21CZW7hc8iT-17pgknlvS3\_Jn4SHgpjby1TWz8FpetNi2APDkqbaT08iA8EFENIqrX1qHhnAUzhXu1MN3HY7xWsZNK\_gK7S1kqkfN8thUG0pBvZns8AfsE8\_pRPddJeEPT9dzfARRKc9HwYzjkRWtSsDiKaFGXiOLWwpcPUVy8MuHRktCl7z7tXaGP9Rl9f2e0xg2xJ\_J2GmfHZJFM5Re43eylBnv\_DWaWEd\_JiL\_XL4zC9rEt9KACIyc8wHUdcE7drU85A-54y2kYl\_vfjn8ZQdRdPn7ocB5cZKGnFULohGADKtgE04oNLrZcz5YZpXgDSw-D0=">Unsubscribe From This List</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/wf/open?upn=u001.ri3TO7QGEXgsxcVdo6-2BoAGTuuWiDEfH5lVjP7AVQ-2Bcl7JaDKdeJ1ydQkXpTFAEqRD2SOncm40jgMuVls37ZLseTP-2Bc5kaLjFJf1Q3kw4FZdt1YoCkYWvLa1l-2BT-2F-2F8yIUiLbFHrmn64p2Xwmffzl3edR6Ty8TRKnThBIufHec6MYr94WZQxWVvMWvfNqNZdVSm2JpSP2sJuJ7h3Z8Ne0G7hTJFdZVkoNa7uHOPXXq-2Fy8yygzKyZWCp2raWDmWA4uOo8QOQ0sBc-2Fd5aAKeZqE-2FGRpNHuOllMK7ck0KQiF8hQ1nfRQcGtdQiGOPR-2Bgxx-2BcP3xC-2BzNsAEnTxQ2hzydEexEyx3Fz4H9XjUkabgyOi-2BC-2F7WTTAeQwF5OwW4njWiKSVoGLBc-2Fb8-2FaOSfJtv6s1tHh3Z1pVlHxUPaRte5GMrPG9ZMof0Vn9oXE3muHPLrjRe-2FacjF-2BIBvUtyqAEYFcw-2BDK18WU-2BZvPgD3ExiKASY9tM-3D" style="height:1px !important;width:1px !important;border-width:0 !important;margin-top:0 !important;margin-bottom:0 !important;margin-right:0 !important;margin-left:0 !important;padding-top:0 !important;padding-bottom:0 !important;padding-right:0 !important;padding-left:0 !important;" width="1"/> </div>, The Wired Word for 05/18/2025, The Wired Word, 01jvb9pg5zc7p5qm3cnpdn1k7g.