St. David Parish Willow Grove Says New Pope is 'Wonderful' Selection

White smoke appeared at the Sistine Chapel chimney Wednesday at 2:05 p.m. (7:05 p.m. locally) signifying that a new pope has been elected.

A little over an hour later, Argentine Jorge Bergoglio was announced the new pope taking the name Pope Francis I. The 76-years-old takes over for 85-year-old Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned from the position last month.

Locally, St. David Parish of Willow Grove Rev. Msgr. Richard Bolger said he was pleased with the selection.

“It’s a wonderful choice,” Bolger said. “His background is one that's a very working class background and yet he evidently never forgets where he came from. He comes from one of the largest diocese in the world. He’s a Jesuit so he’s well educated.”

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Many people are learning about Bergoglio for the first time, and some were surprised in his age given the fact the previous pope resigned at 85-year-old.

“I think that he probably has proven himself in his years,” Bolger said. “The Cardinals felt that he would have the energy and wisdom and the faith, that it would not be a deterent because of his age.”

Bergoglio chose the name Pope Francis I.

“The fact he picked the name Francis, he's known for his ability and totally living the gospel, in a very authentic way. And a very humble way.”