Community Corner

New Pope Francis I Elected: Catholics in Norwalk React

Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio reigns from Argentina, where he was formerly Archbishop of Buenos Aires.

A new Argentinian pope was chosen Wednesday afternoon, big news for Catholicism following the recent and somewhat unusal abandonment of the post by the former position-holder.

The newest addition to the Vatican's top spot is Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, 76, former Archbishop of Buenos Aires, who will take the place of retired Pope Benedict XVI. A Jesuit, Bergoglio is the first non-european leader in the last 1,000 years (though some are contesting that claim) and the first from the Americas.

He will take the name of Pope Francis I. He is the 266th Papal leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

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"I've been watching all day long, it's very exciting," said Fr. David Blanchfield from St. Jerome in Norwalk. "I'm pleased, I think he's going to make a very good "compromise" candidate. He appeals to two different camps with concern for both tradition in the church and concern for the poor."

Blanchfield said Bergoglio's selection shows progress in a church centered perhaps too greatly upon established traditions and habits.

"Most of us were reading the dossiers on each of the cardinals as we had no way of telling for sure who would be chosen," Blanchfield said. "I personally was hoping for someone from wither South America, the Philippines or Africa. We are a world church, a universal church. We've been too centered in Italy and Europe. We've been told unofficially [Bergoglio] was runner-up of the last conclave and received quite a number of votes. I think it's great."

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Fairfield University is the only Jesuit university in Connecticut. President Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J., issued the following statement upon the selection of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina as the 266th pope:

"We join our brothers and sisters in Christ around the globe in saluting Pope Francis I. At this historic moment for the Church, we offer prayers for strength, wisdom, and courage for our new Pope as he assumes this great and sacred responsibility," von Arx said. "In these complex and challenging times, there is an opportunity for renewal and reflection. The election of a pope from Latin America is an historic precedent and an expression of optimism and courage on the part of the conclave.  As Pope Francis I is a member of the Society of Jesus, this is a time for great humility and gratitude for our Society. With God’s guidance, may he lead the Church to greater unity and faithfulness to her Lord and become an inspirational leader, not only for his flock, but indeed, for the world."


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