DD Statement on Election of Pope Leo XIV

For Immediate Release: May 8, 2025

Catholic Women’s Organization Celebrates New Pope

Leaders from Discerning Deacons are hopeful after the historic election of Pope Leo XIV; say it signals a Church ever more open to the gifts of all who serve

Leaders from Discerning Deacons, an organization working to engage Catholics about the role of women in the Church, are celebrating the historic election of Pope Leo XIV, who, in his first official address, called for building bridges and “to be a synodal church.” In a pair of statements, Discerning Deacons co-directors, Casey Stanton and Ellie Hidalgo, reflected on meeting the new pope in February at the Jubilee of Deacons and expressed hope for continued churchwide dialogue toward greater inclusion that began under Pope Francis:

Casey Stanton, co-director of Discerning Deacons, said: “We are filled with deep hope and excitement at the election of Pope Leo XIV that the dream of a welcoming, listening, bridge-building Church is still alive and the transformative work of Pope Francis will continue. In his leadership at the Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Leo welcomed the historic contributions of women now serving in the discernment of new bishops. As a participant in the Synod on Synodality, he demonstrated a deep commitment to co-responsibility and inclusion, widening the path for women to offer their full gifts in ministry, theology, leadership, and governance. We give thanks for the Pope’s witness and ministry, and stand ready to journey with him to promote peace, build bridges, and share the Good News with humility and courage.”

Reflecting on meeting then-Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost in February, Ellie Hidalgo, co-director of Discerning Deacons, said: “His words at the Jubilee of Deacons earlier this year were powerful. He spoke of deacons as team-builders, opening the doors of the church and inviting others in. He reminded us that deacons are out in the world – proclaiming the good news and promoting authentic justice. Listening to him then, I had no idea he would become our new pope. Now I see what a moment of grace it was to hear him affirm the vocation of the diaconate for the Church and for the world.” 

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About Discerning Deacons

Discerning Deacons engages Catholics in active discernment about the role of women in the Church and the renewal of the diaconate so that the Church may serve all God’s people around the world. Learn more: DiscerningDeacons.org

Contact: Comms@discerningdeacons.org
Casey Stanton: 781-799-0239
Ellie Hidalgo: 323-632-3216