Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, also known as Pope Francis, was elected the new head of the Catholic Church on March 13th. The election choice moves the church into the new world culture and away from European ways. The new Pope has reignited the faith of many, and with his ideas, he can bring the Catholic Church into the modern era, fostering a renewed sense of spirituality for believers, even reaching those attending a church in bronxville ny.

Goals of Pope Francis

Pope Francis used his homily at the inaugural mass to stress his vision for the Catholic Church.  He hopes to work to protect God’s creation and help the world’s poor.

Environmental Concerns

Pope Francis wants Catholics to become the world’s protectors.  During his homily he said,  “It means respecting each of God’s creatures and respecting the environment in which we live.”  Simple acts such as recycling and using less water can reduce pollution.  By protecting the environment, we are protecting God’s creation.

Feeding the Poor

Pope Francis believes that by helping those in need we help ourselves.  His goal for the Church is to move forward and help the poor.  By helping  the poor prosper the world will become a better place.  The Pope said, “he must open his arms to protect all of God’s people and embrace with tender affection the whole of humanity, especially the poorest, the weakest, the least important.”  We can better the Church through service to the poor.