Habemus Papam! We have a new Pope, a Bishop to lead Rome. Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina was declared the Pope on Wednesday after the white smoke was cast into the sky from the Sistine Chapel. This also make him the first pontiff from either of the Americas. Not in a thousand years was there a Pope who was elected from outside the Europe. As is the tradition with Popes, Bergoglio also assumed a name, Francis, a name that is reminiscent of the 13th century Italian preacher who lived his life in poverty.
Francis with a hint of disbelief and coyness on his face waved to the several thousands of people who gathered out in St. Peter's Square to welcome him. The cardinals were not very keen to have a young pope to guide them for several decades but a rather seasoned believer and a humble pastor who was popular enough to draw more faith as they chose 76 year old Bergoglio. Bergoglio became the 266th pontiff with one of the fastest papal elections; one concluded in a five-ballot conclave.
After his election he spoke with Benedict, the former Pope who shocked the world by resigning recently. He also has plans to meet with him in the coming few days. Francis is the first Jesuit to come to papacy. Speaking from the Sistine Chapel, he said, "Brothers and sisters, good evening. You know that the work of the conclave is to give a bishop to Rome. It seems as if my brother cardinals went to find him from the end of the earth. Thank you for the welcome."
Surprisingly, Bergoglio was the top contender for the position in the 2005 papal elections only after Pope Benedict. Earlier Bergoglio was the archbishop of Buenos Aires. He is the son of Italian Immigrants to the Latin American country.
Francis is the epitome of simplicity. He took the bus to work, cooked his own meals, and worked for social outreach in the interest of the church. He was once the center of controversy with his provocative speech that Churches today are becoming hypocritical. He pointed out that Jesus Christ bathed lepers and ate with prostitutes and the Churches are trying to espouse them.
He sought blessings for himself and for the resigned Pope Benedict XIV on Wednesday before retiring into the palace. "Good night, and have a good rest," he concluded.
(AW- Anil)
