Boston, MA - Catholic Democrats congratulates Pope Francis on his historic election as the 266th pope to ascend to the chair of St. Peter.  Pope Francis's election today, on the fifth ballot of the conclave, made history in that he is the first Jesuit and the first non-European in the modern era to be elected to the papacy.  As Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Pope Francis was known for living modestly, ignoring the trappings often associated with the "princes of the church," for his doctrinal orthodoxy, and for his strong support for the poor and criticism of class inequality.

"It is gratifying to witness the college of cardinals elect, with what I have to believe was the guidance of the Holy Spirit, a man with the personal and spiritual qualities of Pope Francis," said Nicholas Cafardi, a member of the Board of Catholic Democrats.  "We know that he is a man of humility who lives a simple life, a lesson that will undoubtedly be noted at the Vatican and in chanceries throughout the world.  He has chosen the name Francis in veneration of St. Francis of Assisi, a saint admired around the world for his devotion to the poor, his reverence for God's creation, and his courage in traveling at great personal peril to advance peace.  As a Jesuit, he brings with him the charism of action through prayer and a worldliness for which the Jesuits are known.  These are qualities that will serve the Church well in addressing many of the problems that we face today.  Humility and worldliness, rooted in action through prayer, are a powerful combination for a pontiff who sets his sights on helping those most in need."

"Through having been raised in Argentina and ultimately serving as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Pope Francis has witnessed an emerging economy that symbolizes the challenges of poverty, income inequality, and participation in society for the disenfranchised throughout the world," said Steve Krueger, president of Catholic Democrats.  "His personal witness undoubtedly helped shape and strengthen his commitment to advocating for the poor - a plight that his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI called the 'scandal of glaring inequalities.'  It is heartening to know that Pope Benedict's legacy of advocating for the poor and addressing class inequalities will be continued by Pope Francis.  We are hopeful that he will broaden the messages of helping the least among us - foundational to our Catholic identity - as a result of his direct exposure to these matters.  Let us pray that he is called through his papacy to continue his legacy as an advocate for those in need - not only in society but also within the Church - and that his voice is heard in every corner of the globe."