New Pope Francis Elected: Newark Catholics Say It's An 'Historic Moment'

The first South American ever to lead the Roman Catholic Church was selected by a gathering of cardinals Wednesday, a choice that resonated with many in Newark and its large Latino population.

Jorge Mario Bergolino, 76, will be known as Francis I and succeeds Pope Benedict XVI, who announced his retirement last month. The former archbishop of Buenos Aires is also the first Jesuit to lead the church and the first non-European in about 1,200 years. 

"I am thrilled that God has blessed us in the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Francis. I believe His Holiness has the qualities needed for the Papacy today.  He has a pastor’s heart.  He has administrative skills needed to address the issues of the church’s administration,” said Archbishop John J. Meyer, who leads the Archdiocese of Newark headquartered on Clifton Avenue.

The selection of Francis is significant for a church whose future growth will likely be centered in the Southern Hemisphere, a fact not lost on Newarkers.

“This is a historic moment to have our first pope from Latin America, where more than 500 million Catholics live,” said North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos, a Catholic and president of the Newark Municipal Council. “Pope Francis has a reputation of being sincere and humble. These are qualities that we need in our leader to address some of the key challenges facing the church.” 

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