Want to send a video message to the newly elected Pope Leo XIV?
The parish software development company eCatholic recently launched a campaign inviting people to send video messages to the newly elected Pope Leo XIV.
“We invite you to record a short video message of congratulations to our new shepherd,” the website invitation says. “Whether you're part of a parish, school, or ministry, your voice is part of the church's story, and this is your chance to share a prayer or maybe a word of encouragement to our new Holy Father.”
eCatholic Marketing Director Michael Josephs spoke with ChurchPOP about this initiative. He explained why they decided to do this, the overwhelming response they have received, and how eCatholic plans to deliver the messages to the Holy Father.
“We wanted to do something meaningful—and a little creative—to mark the moment and celebrate with the universal Church,” Josephs said. “Pope Leo XIV’s election is a beautiful reminder that the Church is alive and growing in every corner of the world.”
Josephs said the initiative is “even more personal,” since Pope Leo XIV is from the United States.
“There is a sense of connection and pride that makes submitting a message feel even more personal,” he explained. “While the Church is universal, there’s something powerful about seeing the fruits of centuries of missionary work in America now reflected in the election of a pope from the U.S.”
The marketing director also explained how eCatholic plans to deliver the messages to the Holy Father.
He said they will create a “video montage” of the submissions and “share it with key Catholic media outlets and contacts in Rome.”
“We hope that it makes its way to Pope Leo XIV—or at the very least, that he sees the love and support pouring in from the faithful around the world,” Josephs adds. “Whether or not we get a direct response, we trust that these messages will be a source of encouragement as he begins his pontificate.”
“If you haven't submitted a message yet, there’s still time! We're keeping submissions open a little while longer as we work behind the scenes to share these with the Holy Father,” Josephs said.
“Whether it’s a quick prayer, a word of encouragement, or a heartfelt blessing, we invite Catholics everywhere to be part of this moment in Church history. It’s not every day we welcome a new pope, so let’s flood him with the love, support, and encouragement he deserves.”