I would like to applaud the College of Cardinals for the selection of Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina, who is the first to be called Pope Francis. He is a Jesuit priest who is a man of God and has great concern for the poor and those in need. Pope Francis, I feel, will be a beacon of light to lead his flock into this most troubling century we now live in.
Here is a humble cardinal who prefers public transportation, cooks for himself, has kissed the feet of AIDS patients and will now lead 1.2. billion Catholics. As a Catholic and as Grand Knight of St. Anastasia Knights of Columbus in Douglaston, I feel this is a proud moment laced with hope and faith for the people of the world. Now for that I say, “Viva Pope Francis.”
Frederick R. Bedell Jr.
Glen Oaks Village
