Although we don't yet know who the pope chose for his namesake (Francis of Assisi, Francis Xavier, Francis de Sales), I can't help but think of Christ from the cross telling St. Francis of Assisi to rebuild his church.... In our present state, the church could use some rebuilding. We need to clean out the recent horror of sexual abuse with our clergy and we will need a strong leader. This pope is conservative, humble and has tackled issues or abortion, homosexuality and illegitimate children in his country of Argentina. How blessed are we. I was so moved when he asked us to pray for him when he first came out and remembered Benedict as well. He also mentioned he will go to pray to the "Madonna" at St Mary Major on Thursday...all wonderful things. I am so happy and feel hope that this Francis may being asked by God to rebuild the Catholic church in our time, and sweep out the ugly sins of the past that haunt us today.
