Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, the niece of former President John F. Kennedy—who was the first Catholic president—reflected on Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural address.
Townsend, who served as Maryland’s lieutenant governor, noted that his remarks resonated with ongoing struggles globally.
“He is the Pope of Peace. He mentioned that we are all equal, special in the eyes of God. We are all God’s children. He essentially tells everyone, I love you. God loves you,” she shared during an appearance on News Nation’s “Hill.”
“He emphasizes inclusion for everyone. I think this is a crucial message, especially now when so many are divided by their ideologies,” she added.
Pope Leo XIV’s address also referenced the late Pope Francis, who passed away in April.
“The Pope blessed Rome and extended blessings to the entire world on Easter Sunday. We should embrace that blessing: God loves us, God loves you, and evil will not prevail!”
“So, we must not fear; we should hold hands with God and move forward. We are followers of Christ. He leads the way. The world needs His light,” she emphasized.
Various leaders commended the religious figure who is the first American pope in history.
“This marks a historic day for the United States, and we pray for him as he embarks on his sacred mission, irrespective of his faith, to guide the Catholic Church and inspire many,” remarked former President Obama.
Former President George W. Bush also congratulated the new pope.
“This is a significant and promising moment for American Catholics and for believers everywhere,” he stated. “We pray for Pope Leo XIV’s success as he leads the Catholic Church, serves the underprivileged, and spreads God’s love.”
Previously known as Cardinal Robert Prebble, Leo holds dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru. Townsend confirmed this aspect of his background on Thursday.
“I was thrilled that he was selected as an American who has spent considerable time in Latin America; it’s as if every part of America got chosen,” she noted during the interview.
