The election of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, marks a significant moment in the Catholic Church, and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has extended heartfelt congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, expressing “profound joy” for himself and the Portuguese people. In an official statement, he welcomed the new pontiff, emphasizing the shared values and hopes between Portugal and the Vatican.

“The President of the Republic sent a message of congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, following his election as Head of the Vatican State and Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa expresses the deep joy with which, in his name and on behalf of the Portuguese People, he greets Pope Leo XIV”, can be read on the website of the Presidency of the Republic.

The president also remarked that Pope Leo XIV is seen as a “continuator of Pope Francis,” highlighting the expectation that the new Pope will uphold and advance the legacy of his predecessor. He noted Pope Leo XIV’s openness to the world, particularly to the Americas, reflecting a commitment to global engagement and inclusivity.

 Minister Luís Montenegro congratulated Pope Leo XIV and wished him a pontificate full of light, humanism, and universalism, promoting peace and understanding in a context of international instability and uncertainty. He also paid tribute to Pope Francis’s enduring legacy, particularly his emphasis on social justice, environmental stewardship, and inclusivity.

Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel has also extended his congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on his election, expressing hope for a pontificate marked by peace and unity. Rangel emphasized the importance of the Pope’s message of compassion and inclusivity, aligning with Portugal’s commitment to these values.

European Council President António Costa, a former Portuguese prime minister, expressed on social media that Pope Leo XIV’s election is “a moment of hope for millions around the world,” underscoring the shared commitment between the European Union and the Holy See to uphold human dignity.

In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, conveyed a message of peace and humility, stating, “Peace be with all you,” from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. He pledged to continue the mission of spreading peace and compassion, acknowledging the legacy of Pope Francis.

Pope Leo XIV, who speaks Portuguese fluently, visited Portugal in 2023 to participate in the World Youth Day (WYD),  held in Lisbon, August 1-6. The event, presided over by Pope Francis, gathered hundreds of thousands of young people from around the world.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, USA, is the first American-born pontiff in history. A member of the Augustinian Order, he served as Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, and later as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in the Vatican. Known for his pastoral sensitivity, commitment to social justice, and openness to dialogue, Leo XIV was elected to succeed Pope Francis. His pontificate is expected to continue Francis’s legacy of inclusivity, global outreach, and care for the marginalized.

Catholicism in Portugal

Portugal is traditionally considered a Catholic country, but like much of Europe, it is officially secular and constitutionally guarantees freedom of religion. Since the 1976 Constitution (following the 1974 Carnation Revolution), Portugal has been a secular state with no official religion. The state recognizes and cooperates with various religions, including Protestant, Muslim, Jewish, and Orthodox communities, under its Law on Religious Freedom. However, Catholicism has played a central role in Portuguese history and culture for centuries, including its monarchy, colonial missions, and festivals. The majority of Portuguese people still identify as Roman Catholic—estimates vary, but roughly 70–80% claim Catholic affiliation, although regular church attendance is much lower. As of the 2021 Census, approximately 80.2% of Portugal’s population aged 15 and older identify as Roman Catholic, equating to about 7 million people. The population of Portugal is estimated at 10.58 million (2023).

 PAJ/Staff

Quotes by  Pope Elect Leo XIV

“Peace be with you! This is the peace of the Risen Christ, a disarming and humble and persevering peace. It comes from God, who loves us all unconditionally.”—Pope Leo XIV, first address as pontiff

“Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward. We are disciples of Christ; Christ goes before us, and the world needs His light.” —Pope Leo XIV, first address as pontiff

“We want to be a synodal Church, a Church that walks, a Church that always seeks peace, that always seeks charity, which always seeks to be close especially to those who suffer.”—Pope Leo XIV, first address as pontiff

“We can all be missionaries of the Gospel.”—Pope Leo XIV

“The bishop is not supposed to be a little prince sitting in his kingdom, but rather called authentically to be humble, to be close to the people he serves, to walk with them, to suffer with them, and to look for ways that he can better live the Gospel message in the midst of his people.”—Pope Leo XIV

“The fundamental thing for every disciple of Christ is humility.”—Pope Leo XIV

“We are often preoccupied with teaching doctrine, the way of living our faith, but we risk forgetting that our first task is to teach what it means to know Jesus Christ and to bear witness to our closeness to the Lord.”—Pope Leo XIV