Bishop Cullinan met Pope Leo at an audience in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday May 28th. In the photo, Bishop Phonsie is seen pointing out the delegation of Vocations Directors from across Ireland who had travelled to Rome for a workshop on promotion of vocations to the priesthood presented by the Dicastery for Clergy on Tuesday May 27.

Commenting on his meeting with the Holy Father Bishop Phonsie said: “It was a very personal moment for me. Pope Leo’s calm, loving, and prayerful manner puts one at ease. I promised to pray for him as he takes up the enormous task of guiding and inspiring not only Catholics but all people of goodwill. I have no doubt that Pope Leo, among his many intentions, is praying for work in vocations promotion.”

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, was elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church on May 8, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. His election occurred after four ballots during the papal conclave held in the Sistine Chapel .

On May 25, 2025, Pope Leo XIV formally assumed his role as the bishop of Rome by taking possession of St. John Lateran Basilica, the city’s cathedral. During the ceremony, he declared, “I am Roman,” reaffirming his commitment to serving the people of Rome .

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