White Smoke Confirms the New Pope’s Election

Francis, however, will not have an easy road ahead.  He inherits a Catholic church that is in turmoil from numerous sex abuse and financial scandals, internal division, and declining numbers around the globe.  Analysts are not certain which issues he will focus on first.

This morning, Francis asked for prayer from the 100,000 visitors standing in St. Peter’s Square. “I want you to bless me,” Francis said before leading the church in a moment of silent meditation.

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Melissa Goertzen is a freelance research consultant and writer based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.  In October 2012, she graduated from the Master of Library and Information Studies program at Dalhousie University.  To learn more, please visit her website at melissagoertzen.wordpress.com.

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