Leaders and Catholics from all around the world have been sending in their congratulations after cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected the new Pope Wednesday night.
Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio from Argentina was elected the new Pope Wednesday night, becoming the first pope from South America as well as the first Jesuit pope. Bergoglio chose the papal name Francis "to advance peace, security and dignity for our fellow human beings, regardless of their faith".
Since his election Wednesday night, leaders and Catholics from all around the world have been sending in their congratulations to the new Pope. Bergoglio was one of the favorites eight years ago when Benedict XVI was chosen as Pope.
President Barack Obama said he looks forward to working with the new Pope. He also said Bergoglio's election speaks volumes about South America - a region that is shaping the world today.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel also sent in her wishes saying "Millions of believers in Germany and the world have waited for this moment. Their hopes now lie with the new pope."
Jose Manuel Barroso, President of the EU Commission, wished Francis "a long and blessed pontificate." And Cristina Fernandez, President of Argentina, saluted the Pope in the name of "the people of our country."
Even on Twitter, the Pope's account, which was currently not in use, has been revived and reads "HABEMUS PAPAM FRANCISCUM," a reference to the cardinal's new name.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon echoed Obama's thoughts saying he looks forward to working with the new Pope, who, he is sure, will "build on the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, in the promotion of inter-faith dialogue".
