New Pope Francis I Elected: Catholics in Stamford React

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.

"He is a Jesuit from very humble origins," said Msgr. Stephen DiGiovanni of St. John's in Stamford. "He came up from no where, went through school. He is a great man and a great scholar. He was a fine bishop and a priest. He lived in a little apartment and took the bus to work. There were no limos. He was not a showy man."

DiGiovanni said the new pope's demeanor would do a great deal for a church with a tarnished and troubled image in recent years.

"He was a wonderful choice," he said. "They've chosen a man with a deep concern for the poor and needy in world. I think he will go a long way to underscore what the church does for the needy and the poor in the world, and highlight the positivity in the church, instead of the media's interest in sex scandals."

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."