Statement of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles

Today with joy and gratitude to God, in thanksgiving with the Cardinal electors including our own Cardinal Roger Mahony, we are pleased to share with you the news that Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, taking the name of Pope Benedict XVI, was brought to the Chair of Peter.

In the days and months ahead, the Pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI will unfold under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and for the service of the Universal Church.

As we begin this new chapter in our Church's history, we encourage all of you to pray this special prayer:

Lord,
source of eternal life and truth,
give to your shepherd Pope Benedict XVI
a spirit of courage and right judgment,
a spirit of knowledge and love.

By governing with fidelity those entrusted to his care
may he, as successor to the apostle Peter and the vicar of Christ,
build your Church into a sacrament of unity, love and peace
for all the world.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit
one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.

From the Archdiocesan website.