Pope Francis — Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina — is a good choice to lead Catholics and could bring a reformer's spirit to the church, said The Rev. Thomas Faucher, priest at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Boise.
As a cardinal, Francis has publicly chastised priests in Argentina for refusing to baptize the children of unmarried women, saying they must recognize changes in the world, Faucher said. He expects Francis will be open to discussion of reforms on several fronts including marriage of priests and the use of birth control by Catholic women.
"He is noted for attention to the poor and a simple life," Faucher said. The pope's taken name, Francis, seems to symbolize that Faucher said. It recalls St. Francis, who was born more than 800 years ago and is known for leading a simple, humble life.
In a statement, Idaho Catholic Bishop Michael P. Driscoll said, "As with other Catholics around the world, I am pleased to offer my support and prayers for our new pope, Pope Francis.
"I have never personally met him, but it is clear he has the prayerful and spiritual gifts to lead the Catholic Church in the world today. I am grateful that the College of Cardinals gathered in conclave listened to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
"I am confident Pope Francis will work to guide the church through the new evangelization and make us stronger witnesses of Christ to the world. I ask all Catholics in Idaho to pray for our new leaders as 'the servant of their servants of God' and successor to St. Peter. "
