by Adam Schneider
For Catholics and onlookers around the globe, the election of a Pope Francis has been met with optimism and hope.
Many felt the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI was a sign of the times – the Roman Catholic Church was simply reacting to the waves of criticism and dissent that have poured in over the past several years over sexual abuse committed by priests, cover-ups and excuses that resulted, but in a general sense, its relevancy was beginning to be questioned.
Created Cardinal in 2001 by then-Pope John Paul II, the Argentine Jorge Mario Bergoglio lived a life of humility.
He refused the extravagant residence provided for the Bishop and instead lived in a small apartment, bought his own groceries and cooked his own food and utilized public transportation whenever possible.
While remaining conservative in his theology, he is known for being open to discussion.
For many, having chosen his name after St. Francis of Assisi, this is someone can provide much-needed ecumenical work to the Roman Catholic Church.
