On Thursday, May 8, what began as a special luncheon of appreciation quickly became a moment of profound significance for the Diocese of Norwich—and the entire Church.
Bishop Richard F. Reidy had invited clergy and staff to the Chancery for a midday gathering to thank those who had helped make his episcopal ordination such a joyful and grace-filled occasion. Just as the food arrived Monsignor Janek suddenly called out, “White smoke!”
A hush fell over the room. People instinctively reached for their smartphones, eager to view the livefeed from the Vatican. Fr. Ellis arrived, laptop in hand and connected a speaker so everyone could watch and listen together as the world awaited the announcement from Saint Peter’s Basilica.
Before the new pope was named, Bishop Reidy called everyone to prayer. In a beautiful moment of unity, he offered a prayer of thanksgiving for the election of a new Holy Father and invoked God's blessing upon him and the Church. He then offered a blessing over the food. It was a sacred and unforgettable moment.
A short time later, we heard the long-awaited words: “Habemus Papam.” The Church rejoiced in the election of Pope Leo XIV.
For Bishop Reidy—appointed just a few months earlier by the late Pope Francis—the moment was deeply moving. It highlighted the unbroken continuity of apostolic leadership and the joy of welcoming a new shepherd for the global Church.
Here is Bishop Reidy’s official statement following the election:
“I join the faithful across the Diocese of Norwich and throughout the world in offering heartfelt thanks to God for the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. The See of Peter once again stands filled, and with it, the Church is renewed in its visible sign of unity, continuity, and hope.
Having been appointed by Pope Francis just a few months before his passing, I carry with me a deep sense of gratitude for his paternal care and tireless witness to the Gospel. His humility, courage, and pastoral heart inspired countless souls, including my own.
Now, as we welcome Pope Leo XIV, we entrust his ministry to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary. May his leadership draw the Church ever closer to Christ, and may he be strengthened in his mission to proclaim the truth in love to a world in need of mercy, peace, and faith.”
To commemorate this historic moment, Bishop Reidy will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving for the Election of Pope Leo XIV on Friday, May 9 at 12:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Norwich. All are warmly invited. The Mass will also be livestreamed on the diocesan website and social media platforms.
— Office of Communications, Diocese of Norwich