Rome, 8 May 2025 — The Superior General of the Society of Jesus, Father Arturo Sosa, SJ, has welcomed the election of Pope Leo XIV with joy, prayer, and a renewed commitment to serve the universal Church under the guidance of the new pontiff.

In a heartfelt message addressed to Jesuits around the world, Father General reflected on the significance of the moment, grounding it in the Ignatian tradition of availability to the Roman Pontiff and fidelity to the Church’s mission in the world.

“With all the people of God and so many people of good will, we share the joy of the election of Pope Leo XIV, Bishop of Rome and Pastor of the Universal Church,” Father Sosa wrote, echoing the global celebration of the Church’s new leader.

Drawing on the imagery of the Easter season, Father Sosa connected the papal mission to the post-resurrection encounter between Jesus and Peter, emphasizing that the foundation of Peter’s role—and that of his successors, is rooted in the unconditional love of God and the redemptive mission of Christ.

“The Petrine ministry plays a key role in animating the service of the Church to the redemptive mission of the Lord Jesus in all the complex situations of human history,” he said.

For the Society of Jesus, this moment marks a renewal of a long-standing commitment. Since its founding in the 16th century by St. Ignatius of Loyola, the Jesuit order has offered itself in a unique way to the service of the Pope, ready to go “wherever the need is greatest.”

Father Sosa has personally assured Pope Leo XIV of the Society’s continued willingness to serve “wherever and however his universal vision considers we can give the best of what we are today.”

In closing, Father Sosa called on Jesuits and the wider Church to entrust the new Pope to the care of Mary, Mother of the Church, highlighting her role as a faithful companion to Christ and the early Church.

“Let us take this moment to renew our thinking with the Church,” he urged, encouraging Jesuits to live their vocation with creative fidelity and to continue finding new ways to serve the Gospel in today's world.

As the Church begins a new chapter under Pope Leo XIV, the Society of Jesus stands ready, as it has for centuries, to walk in faith and service alongside the Holy Father.

Read the Full Message {HERE}