Catholics around the world are celebrating the election of the new successor to St Peter, Leo XIV. They are impressed by the first words he chose as he greeted us after his election: Peace be with you. These were the words that the Risen Christ addressed to the disciples on Easter Day. They will highlight his priority to work for peace. Peace be with you. Do not be afraid!

What has impressed us as well is Leo’s humility. And his desire to be one who serves. This virtue of humility was revealed in his words as he began his ministry as pontiff.

“I was chosen, without any merit of my own, and now, with fear and trembling, I come to you as a brother, who desires to be the servant of your faith and your joy, walking with you on the path of God’s love, for he wants us all to be united in one family.”

Who has not felt the enormity of a call from God, to go with Him in a new direction and to allow our life to be turned and changed? Anyone who has stood before the Lord and discerned, with the help of His Spirit, the vocation of service He calls us to - marriage or priesthood or Religious Life- has had to begin by responding with faith and humility.

I’m reminded of the encounter of the young man and Jesus in the Gospel. He came and asked what he could do to have eternal life. We know that Jesus looked deeply within him and loved him. Jesus asked: are you ready to give up all, leave all and follow me into all this vocation will ask of you?

We all give our answer. Pope Leo answers that he follows Christ into places where he would rather not go, knowing that the Spirit of Jesus will be enough for him.

In the ordination rite that follows, Marco, Jupiter and Gionata will put their trust in the Lord who provides for their needs in faith and in ministry. They will be counted among the brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ. And He will look on them with love.

The gospel this evening makes clear who Jesus considers His brothers and sisters. They are the ones who are the constant and active hearers of His Word, despite the worries, pleasures and discomforts that come to strangle the growth of our faith in the Word. They are the ones who persevere with open and responsive hearts, who accept God as Father and trustingly enter into His plan.

Marco, Jupiter and Gionata, do not be afraid. Do not be afraid to go to the people of God, His flock, to serve and care for them as fellow workers with the bishops. Do not be afraid to preach the Gospel and teach the Catholic faith, after solid preparation. Do not be afraid to spend yourselves in nourishing and helping the people of God to grow in holiness through celebrating the Sacraments with them. Do not be afraid to come close to the Lord in prayer, especially, to bring the needs and cares of the people to the Lord, and to reflect each day on His presence, power and guidance in your own life.

Very shortly, we are going to ask for your response to the Promises you make before your ordination, and we will support you with our prayers and intercession, together with the saints.

May the Lord complete the good work that he has commenced in you so that increasingly you will be witnesses to the joy and hope our faith provides. And may Mary, Our Lady Help of Christians, accompany you with her prayers and motherly care.