When Pope Leo XIV woke up this morning, what were his first thoughts? “Oh, that was an interesting conclave.” Then with more consciousness, “Oh, I’m the Pope.” Because he knows several languages, were his waking thoughts in English, Italian, or Spanish? Perhaps our waking thoughts were also on the Pope. Excellent news casts brought Rome and excitement into our homes. Perhaps we cheered right along with the crowd. And we realized, it’s a new day in the Church. Optimism is in the air, as we sense that the new pope will have a steady hand on the wheel of the ship of Peter and a forward look in his eyes. His name assures us that the working class will not be forgotten. His missionary work in Peru reminds us that all parts of the world need to be in solidarity, that even the poorest countries have important contributions. As we begin our day, our thoughts are with Pope Leo. Throughout the day may our prayers be with him so that through him, the “peace” and “bridges” for which the pope dreams and on which his waking moments will be spent may be achieved.