Bishop urges Idahoans to pray for Pope Francis

Bishop Michael P. Driscoll of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise has issued a brief statement on the election of Pope Francis as the new leader of the church.

In his statement, Driscoll said:

“As with other Catholics around the world, I am pleased to offer my support and prayers for our new pope, Pope Francis.I have never personally met him, but it is clear he has the prayerful and spiritual gifts to lead the Catholic Church in the world today.

“I am grateful that the College of Cardinals gathered in conclave listened to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

“I am confident Pope Francis will work to guide the Church through the new evangelization and make us stronger witnesses of Christ to the world.

“I ask all Catholics in Idaho to pray for our new leader as ‘the servant of the servants of God’ and successor to St. Peter.”