Washington D.C., Mar 13, 2013 / 16:47 pm
American politicians offered prayers and congratulations upon hearing the news that Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, SJ, had been elected as the Successor to St. Peter, taking the name Pope Francis.
"On behalf of the American people, Michelle and I offer our warm wishes to His Holiness Pope Francis as he ascends to the Chair of Saint Peter and begins his papacy," said United States President Barack Obama in a March 13 statement.
Pope Francis, formerly archbishop of Buenos Aires, is the first pope from the Americas, as well as the first Jesuit Pope. He was elected by the College of Cardinals during the fifth vote of the conclave on March 13.
"Just as I appreciated our work with Pope Benedict XVI," President Obama said, "I look forward to working with His Holiness to advance peace, security and dignity for our fellow human beings, regardless of their faith."