Habemus Papem! We have a New Pope!
Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina, who will take on the name of Pope Francis I, stepped out and greeted a hundred thousand cheering faithful Catholics.
At 2:10 p.m. white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel and bells rung to announce the selection of the new pope. Shortly after the cardinals stepped out to announce the new pope. He will take on the name of Pope Francis I.
"With the election of Pope Francis I, God has raised up a wonderful new shepherd for the Catholic Church. This marks a new beginning for us, a time of joy and hope; it is springtime in the Catholic Church. I know that the Catholics of the Diocese of Providence join me in expressing our loyalty and love, and our prayerful support for Pope Francis I," said Bishop Thomas Tobin of the Providence Catholic Diocese.
Pope Francis I is the first Latin American Pope in Vatican history.
After four voting sessions at the papal conclave Bergoglio received at least 77 of 115 cardinal votes deeming him the new pope.
