The election of Cardinal Robert F. Prevost as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025, has ignited joy and pride across the globe, including here in Eastern North Carolina. In the hours following the historic election of the first American to lead the Church, Bishop Luis Zarama and two Diocese of Raleigh priests who were in Rome for the historic moment shared their reactions with local media, emphasizing the universal and unifying message of the new pontiff.
Bishop Luis expressed awe at the swift and surprising election, attributing it to the Holy Spirit's guidance.
"The reaction is a reaction of joy and a reaction of surprise. I was not expecting that would come so soon," he said, recalling the moment white smoke signaled the conclave's decision.
In speaking with media during an afternoon press conference held at the Catholic Center in Raleigh, Bishop Luis highlighted Pope Leo XIV's unique background, noting, "He's a pope who has a passport from Peru, who brings the whole Americas together. That is beautiful." Bishop Luis sees the pope's dual identity as a bridge for diverse communities, particularly in our diocese with a growing Hispanic population.
Father Noe Ramirez, a diocesan priest currently studying in Rome, witnessed the historic event firsthand. Describing the atmosphere as the white smoke rose, he said, "It was just a whole bunch of excitement, a whole bunch of joy, Viva el Papa!" he said when speaking with local Raleigh-Durham news station WTVD.
Initially mistaking the smoke for black, Father Ramirez was thrilled when he saw white, confirming the election. For Father Ramirez, the election underscored "the joy of the universality of the church, feeling that you're part of something bigger than yourself."
Father Michael Burbeck, vicar general of the diocese, is currently visiting Rome on pilgrimage. When he arrived at St. Peter's Square, he described the scene as "jubilant."
"I hope to never forget rounding the corner and seeing the white smoke," he said, capturing the emotional weight of the moment.
Sharing his thoughts with Raleigh news radio station, WPTF, Father Burbeck noted that he was struck by Pope Leo XIV's demeanor, saying, "I saw in him a beautiful spirit. He had this gentle smile, a lovely opening address, very warm, very convicted." He expressed surprise at the election of an American pope but emphasized the pope's character over his nationality, highlighting the universal excitement that transcended borders.
Bishop Luis also praised what he viewed as the new pope's humble demeanor, recalling his initial, emotional balcony appearance.
"The humility of him seeing himself in that place," Bishop Luis said, referring to the first glimpse of Pope Leo. "It's a beautiful way to say a lot without words."
At parishes and schools across the diocese, parishioners echoed Bishop Luis's enthusiasm. Gina Drost, faith formation director at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Carolina Beach, told local news station WWAY that the announcement of a new pope is sparking excitement and hope for the future of the Catholic Church.
"It is very exciting," Drost said. "Anytime there's a new pope, it's always exciting. It's a new journey. It's a new thing we're going to be learning."
Drost noted that the loss of Pope Francis is a bittersweet moment for the Catholic community, commenting, "All we can think about is him being welcomed in the opening arms of Christ." Regarding the selection of a new shepherd for the global Church, she added, "Each one brings us something else, and it's always welcomed, and it's always joyful and just a wonderful time in the Church."
At St. Peter Catholic School in Greenville, students heard the bells of the church ring out and cheered in class to celebrate the monumental occasion.
"It reminds us that we are connected to something greater than just our personal selves," Father Jim Magee, pastor of St. Peter Catholic Church, told local news station WNCT. "Very often, especially in the modern day, we can get just sucked into ourselves. Holy Father, Pope Francis, reminds us that we were called to something greater, which is eternal life. These things can pull us out of that normal day-to-day routine and refocus us.
"I think in general, there's always great joy at the election of a new pope, because even in the absence of the pope, we have to remember the Church always has a head, and that's Jesus Christ. The pope is the steward of the Church. So, it's a joyful day to have that new steward in place, and we rejoice at that, and we are able to now move forward, in a sense, in this joyful season," Magee said.
Saint Brendan the Navigator in Shallotte was among the many parishes to host holy hours for the new pope on Thursday evening. "We will gather for Evening Prayer of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, entrusting our new Holy Father to the divine love of our Lord," said pastor, Father Mark Betti.
Father Daniel Rolczynski of NC State's Catholic Campus Ministry commented to local news station WRAL that he believes the pope's multicultural background will enhance global outreach and also outreach to a growing Hispanic population in a growing diocese. "Basically, this whole continent can claim him as close to them," Father Rolczynski said.
Bishop Luis also believes Pope Leo XIV's familiarity with American and Latin American cultures will make the Gospel more accessible, particularly to migrants and diverse communities, and is optimistic about the Catholic faith in general.
"Our parishes are full of life. All the churches are packed on Sundays. It's a great gift," he said.
Below: Father Noe Ramirez, left, and Father Michael Burbeck in St. Peter's Square, at the announcement of the election of Pope Leo XIV.
