To the editor:

I am not a member of the Roman Catholic Church, but I am very impressed with the new pope, Leo XIV. He is intelligent, thoughtful, articulate and gives high priority to social, racial and economic justice.

Read the words from several of his initial pontifical statements:

“You cannot follow both Christ and the cruelty of kings. A leader who mocks the weak, exalts himself and preys on the innocent is not sent by God. He is sent to test you. And many are failing.” — May, 2025

“To all who sent prayers, love and hope as I begin this sacred journey — thank you. I accept this role not as a throne, but as a vow: To serve the forgotten. To uplift the broken. To speak plainly where others stay silent. To be called ‘woke’ in a world that sleeps through suffering is no insult — It is Gospel. Woke means awaken by compassion. Guided by truth. Humbled by grace. Committed to justice – not just for some but for all. So let them mock. Let them sneer. We will build the Kingdom –not with walls, but with love. Be awake. Be loving. Be woke.” –May, 2025

We all know of whom he speaks. It would be wise for all of us — Roman Catholic or not — to heed his words. By his definition, I hope to be called Woke!

David Ambler,

Lawrence