New Pope, Francis, Selected: Georgetown Catholics React

The Catholic Church has a new Pope now that the conclave of Catholic leaders have cast their ballots for Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio, a Jesuit from Argentina.

Pope Benedict XVI stepped down from his position Feb. 28, citing failing strength of “mind and body." The new Pope has taken on the name Francis.

Georgetown, a neighborhood known for its Jesuit University on the hill, is home to many Catholics.

As Catholics around the world waited to hear who would lead the Church into its next phase, Patch asked Georgetowners what they hope for the future of their faith.

"As an active member of Holy Trinity, I hope for a leader who will love us and lead us," Judy Bunnell told Patch. "One who will listen quietly to The Lord and his people throughout the world and help us to navigate a complex world filled with too much suffering and injustice. We are ready to be our best selves."

Once the Pope's name was announced, Catholics responded about what his appointment meant to them.

"I feel renewed as a Catholic. I, myself, am Latina and I'm excited to have 'one of us' as Pope. I think 'our' community needs it and I think our faith needs it. I'm hopeful and feel invigorated," said Guiomar Barbi Ochoa, a Georgetown Visitation alumna and former Patch columnist.

Ochoa said she was surprised by the selection of an Argentine cardinal, but thinks it was wise. She said his selection reminded her of the 2012 U.S. Presidential election in a way.

"The Spanish speaking population is growing at such a rapid pace that society has no choice but to catch up with them. Catholicism in South America is going through a rough patch and I think, strategically, it was very smart to choose someone that can address their concerns as well as speak to the rest of the world," she said.

Pope Francis, 76, was created a cardinal by Pope John Paull II and is known for riding the bus to work in Buenos Aires and championing the poor, according to The Guardian.

The Guardian reports that as cardinal, Bergoglio took a stance against gay marriage, but supported the use of contraception to prevent disease.

What's your reaction to the news? What do you think about his background as a Jesuit? Tell us in the comments.