ATHABASCA — The opening words of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy, “Peace be with all of you,” were met with warm approval by Catholics around the world — including right here in Athabasca.
Father Raldy Jhack Diaz, affectionately known as Father Jhack, leads St. Gabriel’s Parish, which has about 200 registered members. He said the election of Pope Leo XIV — American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost — came as a surprise.
“I was shocked,” said Diaz with a smile. “I was expecting maybe it’s an Italian or maybe it’s a Filipino. Because I’m from the Philippines, I was of course rooting for (Cardinal Luis Antonio) Tagle.”
Still, he described the election as “a work of the Holy Spirit,” adding that God often works in mysterious ways. “When we saw it and it was proclaimed Pope Leo XIV from the United States, listening to his remarks — it was very interesting.”
Pope Leo XIV, 69, is a former missionary who spent many years working with communities in Peru. His early remarks suggested a continuation of the compassionate tone set by his predecessor, Pope Francis — especially regarding the Church’s mission to serve the poor and marginalized.
“Here in Athabasca, we are all called to build bridges,” said Diaz. “And the Pope is very clear on how to do that. Number one, don’t be afraid — because we are loved by God. We can build bridges by having peace. Peace that is very humble, and peace that is persevering because it comes from the Lord.”
That message of peace and humility resonated with local parishioners. Sisters Mevis Prufer and Jackie Shank, who were setting up an event on Eucharistic miracles in the church basement, both expressed enthusiasm for the Pope’s appointment.
“I was excited to hear that his beliefs and his thoughts were similar to Pope Francis’s,” said Prufer. “I was very happy to hear that, and I think he will follow a similar journey — with poverty and with those that are less fortunate than us.”
Shank was especially encouraged by Pope Leo’s emphasis on kindness, inclusion, and his recognition of the role of women in the Church.
“Pope Leo, also like Pope Francis, envisions the world to be kind and loving,” she said. “And he also exemplifies or recognizes the importance of women in the church, and having women be active participants. That’s a big change and it’s exciting to see.”
