Culver City Nuns React to Announcement of New Pope

The white smoke billowed and the conclave chose Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina to become the new pope.

The cardinal who will now be known as Pope Francis, led a prayer at the Vatican shortly after the announcement was made Wednesday afternoon.

The televised event marked a new beginning for the Catholic church.

Culver City Patch spoke with Sister Thecla of the Daughters of St. Paul in Culver City, following the announcement. The nuns run the Pauline Bookstore in Culver City.

"I thought [the announcement] was beautiful, and a surprise. We never thought that Cardinal [Jorge Mario Bergoglio] would become our pope and we're so happy. We were so excited we almost jumped out of our skins!"

The nuns watched the television ass the new Pope Francis came out onto the balcony and spoke to the assembled crowed below. "He started out with great humility," Sister Thecla said. "He stopped, listened and looked out over the crowd, looked up to God [as if to say] 'Bless all of your people.'"

On taking the name Francis, Sister Thecla said she felt the choice was "apropos for this day and age. St. Francis is one of the great saints known for his simplicity and love of all people. Anyone can find something in St. Francis that pertains to their lives."

Regarding how quickly the decision came, Sister Thecla said she was surprised but that "you could tell the Holy Spirit was working in the church... choosing a pope for these times" She added she felt the choice was one that would be good for people of all faiths, not just Catholics.

'The Catholic Church is constantly being attacked so it's important to have a leader who can do something for God's people in a very humble way and I think [Pope Francis] has got it all together."

Sister Thecla's expectations for the new pope are high. "I hope he continues what we believe as Catholics and with the spirit of invitation brings those together who are outside of the church and those who have fallen away from the church," she said.

The nuns plan on celebrating the new pope later tonight. "We'll probably have a little gathering, eat some different food and talk about the new pope," Sister Thecla said. "I think the church bells should ring all over, not just in Rome."

Tell Patch: In what direction should Pope Francis take the church?

Catholics: What is your wish for your faith in this new chapter?

Be sure to like Culver City Patch on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and sign up for our free daily newsletter for email updates.