UCA News
Contribute

Humble Argentine Jesuit assumes the mantle of St. Peter

Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio becomes Pope Francis
Humble Argentine Jesuit assumes the mantle of St. Peter
Pope Francis greets a crowd of thousands on the Vatican balcony (AFP photo/
Published: March 13, 2013 07:37 PM GMT
Updated: March 13, 2013 11:18 PM GMT

In a speech filled with humility and a touch of self-deprecation, Pope Francis greeted a crowd estimated at more than 100,000 in St. Peter's Square by thanking his predecessor Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI for his service to the Church and seeking a favor of the faithful to "ask God to bless me."

The new pontiff, who was considered a long-shot candidate leading up to today's conclave, said his fellow cardinals "went to the other side of the world" to select a new pope.

"Let's begin this journey, bishop and people, a journey of brotherhood, love and trust among us," he said from the Vatican balcony.

The former archbishop of Buenos Aires was born on 17 December 1936 and ordained as a Jesuit in 1969. He succeeded Cardinal Antonio Quarracino as archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998.

His pastoral leadership in Argentina was been marked by a practical and unostentatious approach. He favored taking the bus instead of private cars and regularly visited the poor, who knew him familiarly as "Father Jorge".

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia