David Donnan

The Roman Catholic church has elected a new leader of their church.

Is it ok for Global Methodist to pray for Pope Leo XIV? Should we?

My short pastoral answer is yes. Here’s why.

#1 Global Methodist Are Ecumenical

The Merriam Webster dictionary defines ecumenical as, “of, relating to, or representing the whole of a body of churches” and “promoting or tending toward worldwide Christian unity or cooperation.”

Global Methodist Bishop Scott Jones wrote, “The division of the one church of Jesus Christ into many different denominations, each claiming to be the church, is an ongoing problem… [The ecumenical movement] takes many forms in the world, including grassroots cooperation between congregations, the migration of members from one church to another, and joint action for social justice on the national and international level. The movement also fosters official dialogue between churches that seek to overcome centuries of estrangement so that visible communion might be possible” (Jones Extreme Center 19-20).

Bishop Jones goes onto argue for us to authentically participate in ecumenical dialogue we have to be confident in understanding our own Wesleyan doctrines and beliefs (20-21).

#2 Global Methodist Have Catholic Spirit

One of the more famous sayings of the founder of Methodist movement comes from his sermon on the Catholic Spirit, “But although a difference in opinions or modes of worship may prevent an entire external union, yet need it prevent our union in affection Though we cannot think alike, may we not love alike May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion.”

Wesley goes on to say, “If, then, we take this word in the strictest sense, a man of a catholic spirit is one who, in the manner above-mentioned, gives his hand to all whose hearts are right with his heart: one who knows how to value, and praise God for, all the advantages he enjoys, with regard to the knowledge of the things of God…”

Wesley makes clear he is not calling for latitudinarianism (a belief in which anything goes in regards to doctrine). However, Wesley seems to be emphasizing for Christians to be willing to work with those outside of your denominational and theological preferences. Wesley model this with partnerships with the Moravians and traveling and preaching alongside Calvinist George Whitfield.

In worship we say the Apostles Creed in which we affirm we are a part of “the Holy Catholic Church”. This does not mean we are a part of the Roman Catholic church which just elected Pope Leo XIV. It means we are a part of the universal church of all Christian bodies.

#3 Global Methodist Want All Churches to Have Strong Leaders

Shortly after Pope Francis died I saw Anglican Priest Michael Bird say “bless the Catholic Church with a new leader who preaches the gospel and imitates the way of the Lord Jesus.”

I echo this sentiment. I desire for all churches to have strong leaders who preach the gospel and imitate the way of Jesus.

So join me today in praying for:

• ourselves,
• our friends and family who are sick or lost,
• our local church
• all those around the world who suffer,
• our own Global Methodist Bishops and leaders
• and, yes, let’s pray for Pope Leo XIV.

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About David Wesley Donnan

I write online about Methodism, devotional insights, and personal reflections. My primary goal is to organize my thoughts and explore meaningful topics. Along the way, I hope my writing inspires and encourages others on their journey.

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