“It was a moment of joy for the people, for the Catholic faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, as well as for those following the event on television – an experience of unity and communion. The images aptly capture the essence of the Church as a unifying force bringing together people, languages and nations.” Monsignor Giuseppe Baturi, Archbishop of Cagliari and Secretary General of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, does not hide his enthusiasm as he shares his first thoughts on the election of Pope Leo XIV (born Robert Francis Prevost), the first US-born and first Augustinian Pontiff. “It is a beautiful trait that shone through in a profound yet simple speech, understandable to all, delivered with a paternal heart, the very heart that St Augustine asked of his bishops,” he said, recalling the warmth and enthusiasm of the crowd gathered to hear the new Pope’s first words from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica.
Your Excellency, what was your first impression when you saw Pope Leo XIV appear on St. Peter’s balcony?
It was a very powerful moment. A moment of joy for the Catholic faithful gathered in St Peter’s Square and for those watching the event on television – one of unity and communion. These images capture the essence of the Church as a unifying force, which brings people, languages and nations together. This beautiful trait shone through in his profound yet simple speech, understandable to all and delivered with the paternal heart that St Augustine asked of his bishops.
His biography combines the characteristics of a scholar, a missionary and shepherd, as well as reflecting his origins through his life experience.
We experienced a deeply emotional moment that expressed the presence of God among the people.
The Holy Father’s emotion was palpable — a rare, moving experience. How should this authentically heartfelt gesture be interpreted?
He was moved. This was clearly evident on television. There is nothing wrong with that. It reminds us of Jesus’ emotional responses to the crowds. The Gospels tell us several times that he “had compassion.” I find this an important sign. The people of God possess spiritual intuition, a gift that enables them to recognise truth and goodness, to perceive a willingness to be guided.
The Conclave saw a profusion of speculation and prediction, yet the Church once again took everyone by surprise. Is this its secret?
Indeed, the Church both surprises and teaches. Pope Leo XIV was elected after four ballots, following numerous lengthy General Congregations involving in-depth discussions.
Everyone was taken by surprise, but this also confirms the Church’s greatness, as it is capable of powerful gestures of unity and courage in following the Spirit. Even the few words he spoke from the Loggia seemed to outline an agenda for his pontificate.
Peace was at the heart of his first greeting. It was a powerful call that also encompasses the Italian Church. How will this commitment be interpreted?
He chose to describe it as a gift from the Risen One. In fact, peace was the last word Francis uttered from the Loggia of the Benedictions. He wished it upon everyone.
Pope Leo XIV expressed his desire for this all-embracing peace to be a peace of the people. Peace requires a community of people in peace, capable of forming friendships.
It can’t merely be a response to an emergency. It’s a project shared by the people.
A project rooted in reconciliation and inner disarmament. Is this the face of the Church that is envisioned?
Peace must be grounded in the good of humanity. The pursuit of peace is not just a theoretical concept; it is a tangible, concrete reality that can be attained through reconciliation and inner disarmament. The Italian Church has consistently spoken out on these issues. Pope Leo XIII’s biography is intertwined with his studies, his missionary service, and Church governance: he served as a missionary in Peru as well as being a scholar and an Augustinian. However, he is also a man of the Curia, having served as Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops in recent years. He is familiar with the reality of the peripheries yet has also experienced the heart of ecclesial administration. This provides him with a broad vision of both the Church and the world.
The Augustinian motto chosen by Pope Leo XIV, ‘In Illo Uno Unum’, evokes a deeply personal and pastoral dimension. How will this vision be reflected in his ministry?
It is a highly meaningful reminder. St. Augustine said, “For you I am bishop; with you, I am Christian.” This means that episcopal service stems from a sense of belonging to the people of God. It is not a separate role, but one deeply rooted in the community and an integral part of it. Pope Leo XIV has chosen to adopt this phrase as a guiding principle for his ministry, showing the way and accompanying those on the journey.
Social doctrine, justice, peace. The Italian Church has consistently prioritised these issues. What do you expect from the new Pope?
Leo XIII immediately springs to mind. After the rift with the Italian State, he confronted the issue of modernity with great courage.
The Italian Church is prepared to take up this invitation and embark on a new chapter as an active, supportive community that is attentive to people’s needs, both in terms of thought and action.
Then there is Leo the Great, a Pope renowned for his ability to navigate times of crisis with both pastoral vision and unwavering faith . This reference is no coincidence; it signals a commitment to providing firm leadership and focusing on the needs of the universal Church.
In Leo XIV’s first speech, he delivered a clear message: the Church is not afraid. How does this courage apply to the Italian context?
The Church is not afraid because she moves forward, secure in the knowledge that God loves us all and that everyone must therefore be embraced. The Gospel is a powerful message that must be proclaimed with courage and openness in our time.
Many people were expecting an Italian pope, but a Pope from the US was elected. Did nationality play a role in the Conclave?
I doubt nationality was a decisive factor. The election took place in an atmosphere of prayer and communion. John Paul II used to say that the Pope should be familiar with all languages and embrace all peoples. In this respect, I don’t believe there was any resistance; quite the reverse, it was a sign of unity.
The post Leo XIV. Monsignor Baturi (CEI): “A source of joy for all, signifying unity and peace” first appeared on AgenSIR.