Philadelphia Archbishop Charles Chaput described Pope Francis as a priest of "extraordinary intellectual and cultural strengths" in a statement issued not long after the conclave elected the new pope Wednesday.
In the statement, Chaput said "He (Pope Francis ) is a wonderful choice, a pastor God sends not just to the church but to every person of good will who honestly yearns for justice, peace and human dignity in our time."
Chaput recalled his first meeting with the new pope in 1997 in Rome's Synod for America. Chaput says he still has a gift from him that sits on his desk.
In the statement, Chaput called Pope Francis a man "deeply engaged in the issues of contemporary life and able to speak to the modern heart."
Chaput believes Pope Francis is open to the "new realities" the church faces.
The new pope was elected during the second day of the conclave, which began Tuesday. White smoke could be seen billowing from the chimney shortly after 2 p.m. The sight of the white smoke sent a massive crowd at St. Peter's Square into loud cheers.
Monday, March 11 2013 11:38 AM EDT2013-03-11 15:38:14 GMT
The congregation of cardinals is scheduled to meet Monday to discuss preliminary work and church agendas as they draw closer to scheduling a date for selecting a new pope, FOX News reports.
The congregation of cardinals is scheduled to meet Monday to discuss preliminary work and church agendas as they draw closer to scheduling a date for selecting a new pope, FOX News reports.
Monday, March 11 2013 11:37 AM EDT2013-03-11 15:37:42 GMT
On the day that Pope Benedict XVI stepped down-- the first pope to resign his position in 600 years-- Catholics in Philadelphia thanked God for his service, and prayed for his successor.
On the day that Pope Benedict XVI stepped down-- the first pope to resign his position in 600 years-- Catholics in Philadelphia thanked God for his service, and prayed for his successor.
Friday, May 24 2013 12:41 PM EDT2013-05-24 16:41:43 GMT
A Philadelphia judge has ordered that a couple who believe in faith healing over medicine be held without bail on third-degree murder charges in the April death of their 8-month-old son.Herbert and Catherine
A Philadelphia judge has ordered that a couple who believe in faith healing over medicine be held without bail on third-degree murder charges in the April death of their 8-month-old son.Herbert and Catherine
Friday, May 24 2013 11:53 AM EDT2013-05-24 15:53:36 GMT
Ocean City is a fabulous family-friendly, shore town that is ready for a fabulous Summer season. From the relaxing beaches to the famous boardwalk, Ocean City is safe, clean and has some of the best food
Ocean City is a fabulous family-friendly, shore town that is ready for a spectacular Summer season.
Friday, May 24 2013 9:37 AM EDT2013-05-24 13:37:26 GMT
The volunteer effort in Oklahoma is underway. Groups from across the country have hit the road, delivering hot meals to anyone in need. One local organization is doing what they can to help the victims
The volunteer effort in Oklahoma is underway. Groups from across the country have hit the road, delivering hot meals to anyone in need. One local organization is doing what they can to help the victims
Friday, May 24 2013 7:29 AM EDT2013-05-24 11:29:02 GMT
Our World War II veterans have seen some of the farthest reaches of the globe. One sight they haven't seen: The World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.
From the beaches of Normandy to the islands of Okinawa, our World War II veterans have seen some of the farthest reaches of the globe. One sight they haven't seen: The World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Friday, May 24 2013 7:25 AM EDT2013-05-24 11:25:17 GMT
This most-recent season of "American Idol" is still rousing passions in some households. Police say this Pennsylvania couple got into a knife fight over who should win the finale.
This most-recent season of "American Idol" is still rousing passions in some households. Police say this Pennsylvania couple got into a knife fight over who should win the finale.
Pope Francis I gives his first blessing Wednesday.
