Habemus papam

THE PROVINCIAL AND THE FRIARS OF THE ORDER OF SAINT AUGUSTINE IN ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND
rejoices and exults in the election of the dear brother Robert
Francis Cardinal Prevost OSA
as Roman Pontiff

As Augustinians we, like so many all over the world, welcome the election of Pope Leo XIV. In a spirit of filial reverence, interpreting the sentiments of the brothers of the province and many lay faithful of England and Scotland, we wish to offer Pope Leo XIV warmest and affectionate good wishes, invoking the abundant graces from our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ upon Him and His Magisterium. Graces upon graces that extend to the entire Church and to all humanity.

The good wishes are also intended to be an expression of gratitude for the fatherhood and ardour with which he guided the Order as Prior General for 12 years (from 2001 to 2013) and for the faithful and consistent testimony of consecration and ministry, lived in the light of the charism and teachings of Saint Augustine.

During his term as our Prior General he visited us and was attentive to the needs of each of the friars, carefully listening and guiding them as a brother and father. We believe his global experience will have a positive impact on his leadership of the Catholic Church in these difficult times. He has witnessed firsthand the struggles that our sisters and brothers are experiencing. We are confident he will be a voice and inspiration for all people.

In enthusiastically reaffirming the convinced communion with the Holy Father on the part of all the friars, of our and His beloved Order, we renew the commitment of the Augustinians to serve the Church in its mission and continue our affection and filial obedience to our Holy Father. We assure our assiduous prayer for His person and for the Petrine Magisterium and we entrust ourselves to His paternal blessing.

May the Virgin Mary, venerated by us today with the sweet title “of Divine Grace”, the Holy Father Augustine, Saint Monica, and all the saints and blessed of the Order, guard and support His Ministry as the successor of the Apostle Peter and encourage the Church to walk together in faith and with courage.

Fr. Gladson Francesco Dabre OSA
Provincial Superior
St. John Stone Province of England and Scotland