Towson Catholic Institutions 'Excited' for New Pope

The announcement of the election of the new pope is still fresh, but excitement is already spreading at Towson Roman Catholic institutions.

After two days of conclave, Argentinian Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected pope by a group of cardinals on Wednesday, according to multiple media reports. He will be called Pope Francis.

Father Ed Meeks of Christ The King Church, which converted from Anglican to Catholic in summer 2012, said members of his parish love former Pope Benedict, who resigned last month, but are eager for Bergoglio to begin his papacy.

"We're excited and delighted that a new pope has been elected," Meeks said. "I don't know too much about [Bergoglio] but everything I've heard has been positive."

Meeks said he doesn't anticipate any major shift in direction for the Catholic Church under Bergoglio's leadership.

"Every pope will have his own style but I think that he will continue in the tradition of both Pope John Paul and Pope Benedict," he said.

Christ The King will celebrate the new pope at its Thursday noon mass.

Nearby, students and staff at Notre Dame Preparatory School are also following news of Bergoglio's election with great interest.

Cami Colarossi, a spokeswoman for the girls' Catholic school, said the institution has been airing media coverage from the Vatican for students to watch since the announcement was made.

"They were interested and excited," Colarossi said.

Though Notre Dame officials do not have immediate plans to celebrate, classes have been discussing the papacy over the last couple of weeks.

"We're touched by what's happening right now," Colarossi said. "It's a moment to reflect on our Catholic pride and heritage."