Atlanta Catholics Cheer For Pope Francis

Monica Oppermann was one of many who applauded the selection.

“First, (the) most important thing is we have a holy father. He’s a holy man chosen by the cardinals in the light of the Holy Spirit. So for me that’s the main thing.”

Secondly, Oppermann said it’s wonderful to have a Pope who in her words “looks like us”. Pope Francis is from Argentina. Oppermann has lived in Atlanta for more than a decade but is originally from Mexico. That connection was not lost on Atlanta Auxiliary Bishop Luis Zamara, who was born in Colombia.

“And for the Latinos here in Atlanta, it’s a beautiful sign. If we are close to the church, having a Pope who is from Latino America will help us to be closer to the church too.”

Pope Francis is new to many in Atlanta. Local Catholics noted the Pope yesterday asking people to pray for him calling it a sign of humility.