I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4 NLT)
Yesterday, I came across an article written by a Roman Catholic believer who shared his hopes for the new pope. Although I’m not Catholic, I have many beloved Catholic brothers and sisters in Christ, and I had planned to write a blog post and spend some time praying over the selection of the new pope. Before I had the chance, the Vatican Conclave made its decision—and with the traditional white smoke, Pope Leo XIV was announced.
With an estimated 1.4 billion people identifying as Roman Catholic, the leadership of this branch of Christ’s Church carries global influence. Today, let us join together in prayer for Pope Leo XIV and for spiritual leaders across the Body of Christ.
God of all times and places, we thank you for the guidance of your Holy Spirit in your Church. We are grateful for your presence that directs our earthly decisions, and we pray that the selection of Pope Leo XIV was fully led by your Spirit. Thank you for the Roman Catholic Church’s vital role throughout history in spreading the Gospel. We ask that you continue working through this institution to bring people into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.
Today we lift up all leaders across the body of Christ. Cleanse your Church, Lord—remove all unrighteousness. Where there has been corruption, exploitation, or deceit, we ask for your forgiveness, our repentance, and restoration for those returning to you. Where leaders resist the Holy Spirit and fail to seek your Kingdom first, we ask that you remove them from places of influence. Create in us clean hearts and renew right spirits within us. May your Spirit never be grieved or withdrawn from congregations due to sin. Instead, may repentance be met with your mercy, grace, and love.
As you purify the leadership of your Church, draw every leader closer to you. Give them a deep hunger for your wisdom and discernment, and lives marked by holiness and integrity. Raise up more leaders who recognize that the harvest is ready, and that people across the world need to hear the Good News of Jesus.
We pray especially today for Pope Leo XIV. May he be a man of integrity, humility, and honor—a man after your heart. Equip him to wisely balance the many responsibilities of his role and lead people closer to you. Use the Roman Catholic Church as a powerful instrument to reach the lost and strengthen believers for faithful service.
We ask in the powerful name of Jesus, AMEN.
Create in me a clean heart, O God.
Renew a loyal spirit within me.
Do not banish me from your presence,
and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. (Psalm 51:10-11 NLV)