As these joyful words ring out across the world, the people of the Diocese of Lafayette join the chorus in profound gratitude to the gracious mercy of Almighty God. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, has provided a human shepherd to nurture and guide his people. We thank God for the gift of His Holiness, Pope Francis, and we thank Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, SJ, for his acceptance of the Office of Bishop of Rome and Supreme Pontiff. Long live the Pope. (From Bishop Jarrell’s office)
Video from Bishop Jarell
An interesting “first impressions” article from a fellow Jesuit
An Associated Press story: Francis is first Pope from Americas
From Wikipedia: Jorge Bergoglio
Let us Pray:
O God, who in your providential design willed that your Church be built upon blessed Peter, whom you set over the other apostles, look with favor, we pray, on Francis, our Pope, and grant that he, whom you have made Peter’s successor, may be for your people a visible source and foundation of unity in faith and of communion.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever. Amen.
St. Patrick Catholic Church 
