My dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ: 

“And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18) 

As Jesus spoke these words to Saint Peter, He also spoke them to the 265 successors of Saint Peter.  Soon again, Jesus will speak these words to the newly elected Pontiff.  

As we turn our hearts and prayers toward Rome, awaiting the election of our next Holy Father, we need to remember the profound truth that guides this sacred process: it is the Holy Spirit who guides our Church. 

The cardinal electors, gathered in conclave, are undertaking a truly spiritual reflection and deliberation.  They are seeking, through prayer and discernment, to identify the man who will best serve Jesus as the successor to his apostle Peter, the “rock” upon which Christ built His Church. 

May we place our trust in the Holy Spirit, who works through the Church and within the hearts of the cardinal electors.  May we pray that their discernment will be guided by divine wisdom, leading to the election of a shepherd who will faithfully serve our Lord and lead us in unity and love. 

Grateful for our continued efforts together in being On Mission for The Church Alive!, and for our belief that “Nothing is Impossible with God,” I am 

Your brother in Christ,
 Most Reverend David A. Zubik Bishop of Pittsburgh