The Secretary-General of the Presidency of the Christian Alliance, Anno Jawhar, has extended congratulations to Pope Leo XIV following his recent election as the 267th Pope of the Vatican, expressing hope that the new pontiff will keep the Orient and its Christian communities close to his heart.
Speaking to Kurdistan Globe, Jawhar stated, “With hearts full of faith and solidarity, we welcome the election of the new Pope, who now bears the spiritual mantle in a world longing for love and truth.” He highlighted Pope Robert Francis Prevost’s call for peace and reconciliation in his first public address, stressing the importance of unity in a time of global hardship.
Reflecting on the legacy of the late Pope, who visited Kurdistan during a time of crisis, Jawhar noted, “His visit was not only a blessing but a recognition of Kurdistan as a historic sanctuary for Christians. It paid tribute to the ancient heritage of Mesopotamia and the sacrifices of Kurdish and Iraqi Christians during the war against ISIS.”
He also underscored the deep bond between the late Pope and President Masoud Barzani as a symbol of Kurdistan’s commitment to religious coexistence and protection of minority faiths. “Despite adversity, Christianity has not only survived in Kurdistan but has thrived under wise and inclusive leadership,” he said.
Jawhar urged Pope Leo XIV to continue this legacy of compassion. “We ask His Holiness to keep the Orient in his prayers and remain attentive to the voices of faithful Christians who continue to carry the cross in lands where faith has endured for thousands of years,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Jawhar extended an invitation to the new Pope: “Your Holiness Pope Leo XIV, we send our blessings from Erbil and its ancient citadel, from Ankawa, and we await your visit.”
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost, was elected on Thursday, May 8, 2025. The 69-year-old pontiff, born in 1955 in Chicago, Illinois, becomes the first American Pope in the history of the Catholic Church.
