Bishop Mark Beckman of the Diocese of Knoxville expresses profound joy and gratitude upon the announcement from the Vatican.
“We are filled with immense gratitude to the Holy Spirit for guiding the College of Cardinals in selecting Pope Leo XIV to lead our Catholic Church,” said Bishop Beckman.
“The faithful of East Tennessee join in prayer and thanksgiving for our new Holy Father. Pope Leo XIV brings tremendous gifts to the Chair of St. Peter, and we look forward to his leadership as we continue to proclaim the Gospel message of Jesus Christ in East Tennessee and throughout the world.”
The diocese encourages all parishes to include special prayers for Pope Leo XIV in their weekend liturgies and invites the faithful to join in prayer for his pontificate.