Local Catholics 'overjoyed, excited' about election of new pope and his chosen name
St. Francis parishoners thrilled about chosen name
Posted: 03/14/2013
Last Updated:
71 days ago
BAKERSIFELD, Calif. -
Parishioners at Saint Francis church received even better news than they had hoped for when they found out mid-mass that a new pope had been elected.
"This is history in the making getting a Latin American pope," said parishioner Celia Pinal.
"I think we needed a pope with a little more culture in him besides European. I think that's a beautiful thing to have," said parishioner Emily Ripperger.
Not only that, Pope Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina chose the name Francis-- after Italian Saint Francis of Assisi who identified with peace, poverty and a simple lifestyle.
"It's marvelous. I want to see what he's going to do in honor of Saint Francis," said Ripperger.
"The name itself will carry us well in the mission of faith," said Pinal.
A mission that has been clouded by recent scandal overshadowing the catholic church.
"When you're in a position with that much power satin is after you so i think just maintaining his faith strong and keeping that up is going to be a challenge for him," said Ripperger.
Parishoners hope a new pope will bring a new face of change to the church and a renewed interest in Catholicism.
"I hope this will open the world to see what we really are about and generate some interest in our faith," said Ripperger.
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