Reflection on recent public criticism of the Holy Father and the tragedy of war

A message from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M.

IN RECENT DAYS, MANY OF THE FAITHFUL IN THE DIOCESE have reached out to me as Bishop and Shepherd of the local Church with concern, confusion, sorrow, and, in some cases, even anger regarding public comments made by President Donald Trump about our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, as well as the Holy Father’s measured response. Moments like these can unsettle hearts, especially when the unity of the Church and the dignity of her mission appear to be drawn into the turbulence of political discourse.

At the same time, our world is shaken by the ongoing war in Iran — an urgent conflict that has already claimed human lives and threatens to destabilize an entire region. In the midst of such suffering, the Church’s mission remains clear: to proclaim peace, to defend human dignity and to guide the faithful with confidence in times of uncertainty.
As your Bishop and Shepherd, I offer clarity, reassurance and a call to deeper Christian witness.

Read more HERE.

Top photo caption: Pope Leo XIV, the former Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, waves to the crowds in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican after his election as pope May 8, 2025. The new pope was born in Chicago. CNS photo/Vatican Media