Now that the conclave has announced the new head of the Catholic church, Glendora Patch wants to know what you think about the choice.
Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina, who will be known as Pope Francis, led a prayer at the Vatican shortly after the announcement was made Wednesday afternoon. He is the first pope from outside of Europe in more than a millennium.
The televised event marked a new beginning for the Catholic church.
Father John Vogel, pastor at St. Dorothy Church in Glendora, praised the Vatican's selection.
"I think it's wonderful to have a Pope from the new world," said Vogel. "I don't know anything about him except that he is humble. A good example for all of us. May we be more willing to serve rather than be served. God bless Pope Francis I."
Some facts about Pope Francis:
- He is 76 years old.
- He was the archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- He is known as being "humble" and as an advocate for the poor in Buenos Aires.
- According to the New York Times, Pope Francis had claimed that instead of living in the diocese mansion in Buenos Aires, he chose to live in a modest apartment.
- Pope Francis chose his name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi because of the venerated saint's commitment to the poor and disenfranchised.
Tell Patch: In what direction should Pope Francis take the church?
Catholics: What is your wish for your faith in this new chapter?
