Dr. Boonchuay Doojai, a former Buddhist monk, renowned scholar and president of the Interfaith Foundation for Social Development in Thailand, believes that the election of Pope Leo XIV is a deeply symbolic moment for the world.
“By choosing the name Leo XIV, he signals a return to the Church’s bold social teaching – an emphasis on justice, dialogue and solidarity to bridge the global divides of our time,” Dr. Boonchuay commented.
He noted that the new pope’s first public address was in Italian, not English, and that he addressed his former diocese of Peru in Spanish, reflecting his inclusivity and pastoral priorities.
“His first words – ‘Peace be with you!’ – echo Catholic liturgy, but are clearly a call for universal peace in a world torn by conflict,” Dr. Boonchuay said.
During his inaugural Mass, Pope Leo XIV again called for peace in war-torn regions, echoing the public addresses of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
“His voice still echoes in our ears – soft, but always full of courage,” Pope Leo XIV said, referring to Pope Francis’ last public blessing on Easter Sunday, the day before he died.
Dr. Venturai, who is also the president of the Buddhist Bodhidharma Institute, recalled a private meeting with Pope Francis at the Focolare Movement International Center in Lopiano, Italy, in May 2018.
“It was one of the greatest honors of my life. I met a man of great humility who lived his pontificate with simplicity and grace, embodying the values of dialogue, love and inclusion,” he said.
Dr. Venturai reflected on the two popes’ styles of conduct. “He clearly followed in the footsteps of Pope Francis, but at the same time charted his own path – respecting tradition while embracing change. He reminded us that the new pope brings not only a legacy but also a new direction,” he said.
Pope Leo XIV has been in office for just over a week, but he has already made a deep impression on Dr. Venturai. “What impressed me most was his ability to listen with empathy — even to those with whom he disagreed — and to seek understanding and unity,” he commented. “He was a man who truly wanted peace in the world and harmony in the Church.”
