Community Corner

New Pope Francis Elected: Red Bank's St. James Reacts

The white smoke appeared on Wednesday, signalling that the conclave had chosen Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio to be the new head of the Catholic Church.

After just two days of papal conclave, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, 76 of Argentina, has been elected the new head of the Catholic Church.

With his chosen name of Francis, he is the first Jesuit and first Latin American pope in the Catholic Church.

Veronica Alexander, business manager of St. James Church, said the parish was excited to hear the news.

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"We think it's wonderful. We're thrilled. The cardinals did the task they were called to do under the guidance of the Holy Spirit," Alexander said. "We are absolutely delighted."

It only took two days for millions of Catholics around the world to see the white smoke at The Vatican. Bergoglio received the second most votes in the last papal election, when Pope Benedict XVI was elected.

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Tell Us: Are you happy with the choice of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio as the next pope? Let us know in the comments below.


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