Many of you have reached out asking what we think of our new Holy Father, whether we’ll have the opportunity to meet him, and how this impacts our appointment—made by Pope Francis—as Consultants to the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life.
Because Witness to Love serves parishes and dioceses around the world, we wondered if our paths might have crossed with Pope Leo XIV before. When we heard the name of his former diocese in Peru, it sounded familiar. So, we did a little digging—and discovered something beautiful.
In both 2019 and 2023, we received messages from two different priests in the Diocese of Chiclayo. Each one reached out because of the missionary zeal of their bishop, Robert Prevost. Both spoke so highly of him that even our staff felt moved to learn more about this shepherd with a missionary heart. That same bishop is now the Bishop of Rome—our Pope.
Everything we’ve read and heard from Pope Leo XIV so far reflects a spirit deeply aligned with the mission of Witness to Love. We are encouraged and filled with hope. We look forward to continuing our work as consultants and, God willing, one day meeting him in person.
As parishes across the continent welcome newly ordained or reassigned priests and deacons, we’re here to help! If you’re moving to a new parish, remember—your Witness to Love certification goes with you. We're happy to assist with setting up Witness to Love in your new parish and onboarding leaders in the parish you’re leaving.
Fr. Victor Perez, a young priest at St. Joseph’s Church in Houston, shares his mission of walking with couples on their journey of faith and marriage. Passionate about building strong, Christ-centered communities, he reminds us that pastoral care doesn’t stop at the altar—it’s a lifelong accompaniment.
To all our priests: never underestimate how your example and support can deeply inspire couples to embrace the beauty and challenge of their vocation!
We’re thrilled to welcome the following parishes into the Witness to Love family:
St. Columbkille – Papillion, NE
St. Raphael – Fairbanks, AK
St. Dominic Pastorate – Platteville, WI
St. Stephen – Maurepas, LA
Our Lady of the Lake – Ashland, WI
Your commitment to fostering strong, Christ-centered marriages inspires us every day!
“The insight that [our mentors] have and their willingness to make sure we continue to grow as a couple means the most to us.”
— Engaged Couple, Archdiocese of Dubuque
Stories like this remind us why we do what we do.
Your prayers, support, and engagement continue to make all of this possible. Thank you for being an essential part of the Witness to Love family.
In Gratitude for each of you,
with the Witness to Love Team & Board
P.S. Share this newsletter with your parish or an engaged couple to spread the joy of the Gospel!