Toronto, ON May 23, 2025 – The Catholic Civil Rights League (CCRL) joins with the faithful across Canada and around the world in giving thanks to God for the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.
We commend the College of Cardinals for their prayerful discernment in selecting a successor to Pope Francis.
In Pope Leo XIV, the Church now welcomes a new shepherd at a moment of great need—for clarity of teaching, courage in witness, and hope in the face of cultural and moral challenges.
As defenders of religious freedom and the rights of conscience in Canadian civil society, the CCRL looks forward to the leadership of Pope Leo XIV as a source of strength and renewed clarity. His election is a reminder of the Church’s enduring mission: to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in every age, to uphold the dignity of the human person, and to defend truth with charity.
We pray that the Holy Spirit may guide Pope Leo XIV with wisdom and courage, and that his pontificate will be marked by a deepening of faith, unity, and fidelity to the Gospel. In union with Catholics across the country, the CCRL reaffirms its commitment to promoting the splendor of the truth of our faith in public life while supporting the Church’s mission in the face of growing secular pressures.
May the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, intercede for our new Holy Father Leo XIV.
Viva il Papa!
If you were unable to support us during our recent appeal, please consider making a contribution today. Your donation enables the CCRL to continue its vital work in defending religious freedom, supporting conscience rights, and giving voice to faithful Catholic witness in Canada’s public sphere.
Please visit https://ccrl.ca/support/ to contribute securely online.
We appeal to any of you who are able to send a donation to the CCRL by clicking here or by mailing a cheque to the CCRL at PO Box 84505, RPO Bloor West, Toronto, ON, M6S 4Z7, or by calling the office at (416) 466-8244.
About the CCRL
Catholic Civil Rights League (CCRL) (www.ccrl.ca) assists in creating conditions within which Catholic teachings can be better understood, cooperates with other organizations in defending civil rights in Canada, and opposes defamation and discrimination against Catholics on the basis of their beliefs. The CCRL was founded in 1985 as an independent lay organization with a large nationwide membership base. The CCRL is a Canadian non-profit organization entirely supported by the generosity of its members.
To donate to the CCRL, please click here.
For further information:
ccrl@ccrl.ca
416-466-8244
@CCRLtweets