🇻🇦🇩🇲 Dominica PM Roosevelt Skerrit Congratulates Pope Leo XIV on Election as Pontiff
ROSEAU, Dominica – Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has extended heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, following his election as the 267th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.
In a statement shared on May 9, Skerrit, a devout Catholic and national leader of the Commonwealth of Dominica, expressed profound admiration for the Pope’s ascension, calling it a “symbol of renewal and hope” in a time of global uncertainty.
“Your ascension comes at a pivotal moment in our world—when nations grapple with conflict, inequality and the urgent need for peace, compassion and unity,” Skerrit wrote. “Your leadership is a profound symbol of renewal and hope, reminding us that faith constantly invites us to rebuild, reconcile and recommit to the service of others.”
On behalf of the Government and people of the Commonwealth of Dominica, and as a son of the Catholic faith, I extend heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election as the 267th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.
Your ascension comes at a pivotal moment… pic.twitter.com/qAYt3HCAMM
— Roosevelt Skerrit (@SkerritR) May 9, 2025
The Dominican Prime Minister also conveyed the nation’s hopes for Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate to be one of moral clarity, justice, and mercy, while praying that it inspires global efforts to “seek common ground, care for creation and build a future anchored in love.”
Skerrit ended his message with the Latin blessing “Ad multos annos” – meaning “To many more years” – a traditional expression of goodwill toward new papal leaders.
Pope Leo XIV was elected earlier this month and succeeds Pope Francis, becoming the new spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide. His election has sparked waves of messages from global leaders, many echoing Skerrit’s call for renewed unity and moral leadership in turbulent times.
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