Clearwater Reacts to Election of Pope Francis

As the bells rang and white smoke appeared Wednesday, Catholics around the world celebrated the election of Pope Francis as the 266th pope. 

We asked Clearwater Patch Facebook readers how they felt on Facebook about the Catholic Church's selection of Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio to lead the church. 

Reviews were mixed as some Patch readers thought the "humble" Pope was a good choice while others were hoping for a younger person to lead the church. 

"I have a feeling he will be a great Pope. Very gentle and humble," wrote Paola Lombardi. 

Mark Hobratschk said, "Smart choice to go to Latin America."

While Paul Malone said, "Another relic from the past." 

"I'm concerned with his advanced age and the fact that he only has one lung. How healthy is he and how much longer does he have to live?" asked Patch reader Colleen Talbot.  

On Wednesday, Bishop Robert Lynch with the Diocese of St. Petersburg released a welcome letter to Pope Francis. 

We want to hear from you! Do you think Pope Francis is the right person to lead the Catholic Church? 

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