Community Corner
Western PA Catholic Leaders Hail Selection of Pope Francis I
Pittsburgh-area Catholic leaders react to the election of Pope Francis I and are especially fixated on his "New World" origins and the meaning behind the name he chose. Share your thoughts on the new Pope in the comment section below.
Pittsburgh-area Catholic leaders reacted to the election of Pope Francis I and were especially fixated on his “New World” origins and the meaning behind the name he chose.
Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina was selected the new pope Wednesday and greeted the thousands who gathered at the Vatican.
Closer to home, Catholic leaders here said they are excited about the selection.
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Bishop David A. Zubik said the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh greeted the news with joy. He noted the new pope will face "challeges" in his new role, as the Catholic Church has for more than 2,000 years.
"Our new Holy Father brings with him the experience of a dedicated pastor who has served the Church so well in his many years of ordained ministry," Zubik said in a statement "That experience—and the rock-steady faith that has guided him—will be his comfort and strength in the challenging days ahead."
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In a statement on their Facebook page, the North Hills-based Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh said they are praying for the new church leader.
"The Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh offer their prayers for Pope Francis I (Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires, Argentina) that he will be a man of prayer and humble courage," the sisters said.
"We pray that the Holy Spirit will inspire him to guide the Church for the good of all people and as St. Francis, his patron, may he defend and support the poor and oppressed of our world.
Numerous Catholics also said they found it surprising the new pope is from South America. Pope Francis I is the first pontiff to come from the Americas after dominance by Catholic leaders from Europe.
He replaces Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned at the end of February. The conclave of Cardinals to select the new pope began Tuesday morning.
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We want to know what you think. Do you agree with the selection? In what direction should the new Pope take the church? Catholics: What is your wish for your faith in this new chapter?
Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.
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