Fort Worth Bishop Michael Olson ‘ecstatic’ over election of first American pope
Bishop Michael Olson of the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth Catholic grew up in suburban Chicago along with the first American pope, but they don’t know one another.
But Olson hopes to meet Pope Leo XIV when he goes on a pilgrimage to Rome in June.
“I was ecstatic,” Olson said, when asked about his thoughts after Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church on Thursday. “I was surprised and overwhelmed, and I didn’t know how to wrap my mind around it.”
Olson said he was working in his office when he heard applause and shouts of “there’s white smoke.”
Olson said he corresponded with Pope Leo XIV when he was over the Dicastery of Bishops at the Vatican and described him as humble and dedicated to Christ.
“I’m filled with joy and gratitude. The church continues to flourish,” he said.
Olson said the diocese will celebrate Pope Leo XIV with Masses in English and Spanish.
This story was originally published May 8, 2025 at 5:12 PM.