Even though they were many African Cardinals as front runners, many African Church insiders were very pleased with the break from tradition of European predecessors. They welcome the fact that South America has an older Church, and hope the next will be from Africa.
The new Pope has raised controversial questions amount many Church outsiders; they put to question his close alleged past linking him with the many military leaders in Argentina, and his strong stand against gay marriage. Nevertheless, the choice of an Argentine pontiff seemed to be well received overall by church insiders Worldwide. Father Giulio Albanese, director of the Catholic News Agency, said:
“He is an extraordinary man. A Jesuit and a person with the ability to make the changes needed in the church.”Italian head of state President Giorgio Napolitano also said he was
“struck by the simplicity” of the new pontiff.Bergoglio adopted the name of Francis, one of the church’s most revered saints who was a beggar in 13th century Italy. The name is widely interpreted as sign of humility.
Since suffering an infection as a teenager, the 76-year-old has lived with only one functioning lung, although he is said to be in good physical shape.
Right after the new Pope was announced, in his first public speaking to the crowd who have long waited for the historical news, he showed immense humility by saying:
“Brothers and sisters, good evening. Thank you for the welcome.”He also showed his humour side by noting the cardinals gathered to pick a bishop of Rome
“but have chosen one from far away – but here I am”.President Obama also acknowledged this historic moment and noted this is a big day for all Hispanics in the United State
Source: The independent.
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