Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio—better known as “Dr. Italy”—was standing in St. Peter’s Square when the white smoke rose to announce Pope Leo XIV’s election. That moment, the culmination of anticipation and prayer, unfolded like something out of Acts of the Apostles. The joy was electric, he said. People from every nation on earth erupted in unified celebration, a true testament to the global Catholic family. And then, the silence fell. When Pope Leo stepped out onto the balcony, his presence was not thunderous but still, calm, and deeply moving. His voice, gentle yet firm, settled over the crowd like a balm of peace.

Dr. D’Ambrosio described the white smoke with striking spiritual depth. Biblically, clouds have always signified the presence of God—on Mount Sinai, during the Transfiguration—so that little puff of white is more than just a procedural signal. It’s a visible sign that the Holy Spirit is guiding the Church, helping our cardinals choose the next shepherd.

John Morales and Dr. D’Ambrosio agreed: the Pope is not merely a figurehead or CEO of a global institution. He is the successor of Saint Peter. That’s a huge spiritual responsibility. Peter, flawed as he was, was handed the keys to the Kingdom by Christ Himself. That same authority, passed down through centuries, now rests in the hands of Pope Leo XIV. And while it’s easy to critique from the sidelines, the faithful are called to something better. We’re called to respect the Pope, listen to his words, and believe that God can—and will—speak through him.

What does Pope Leo XIV bring to the Church? As his name implies, there’s the strength of a lion, reminiscent of his namesakes Pope Leo I and Pope Leo XIII. But there’s the gentleness of a lamb, too. He is clearly a peacemaker, someone who seeks to unite rather than divide. His leadership invites us to be the same: bold in truth, gentle in love, and unwavering in our commitment to Christian unity.

Supporting Pope Leo is more than just admiring his presence or reposting his quotes online. It means praying for him, taking his teachings seriously, and doing our part to bring peace into our homes, parishes, and communities. He may be the visible head of the Church on earth, but the Body of Christ needs every one of its members working in sync.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” These words from Matthew 5:9 are a call to action. This moment in the Church isn’t about watching from afar. It’s time to get in the game. The Church is alive—and so are we.