We are reminded in 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (WEB), "I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks, be made for all men: for kings and all who are in high places; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; who desires all people to be saved and come to full knowledge of the truth."
While we are instructed to pray for those in authority, we also recognize that the Pope, as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, holds significant influence over many people. We pray that the newly elected Pope will come to a full knowledge of the truth, which is only found in Jesus Christ. It is only through the name of Jesus that we can approach God, as it is written in John 14:6 (WEB), "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.'"
Let us pray together:
"Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, lifting up the newly elected Pope. We pray for his health, wisdom, and knowledge. Surround him with Your protection and guide his actions and decisions. Lord, we ask that You would use his position to advance Your kingdom and bring many to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. We pray that Your will be done in his life and through his works. If it is Your will, we pray that You would bring reformation to the Catholic Church, turning it back to a biblical foundation. We ask this all in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen."
We also take this opportunity to remind everyone that our faith is in Jesus Christ alone, not in any human leader or institution. It is through His death and resurrection that we have salvation, as it is written in Acts 4:12 (WEB), "There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"
Let us continue to pray for all leaders, including the Pope, that they would be guided by God's wisdom and used for His purposes.