Bp. Cunningham’s statement on Pope Francis

March 13, 2013

Most Rev. Robert Cunningham, Apostolic Administrator, on the election of Pope Francis:

Wednesday, 13 March 2013

“It is with joy, happiness and gratitude to our gracious God, that we welcome Cardinal Bergoglio, Pope Francis, as our Holy Father. In his first papal appearance, he asked the people gathered in St. Peter’s Square and throughout the world to join him in prayer for the Bishop Emeritus of Rome, Benedict XVI. Using the Our Father, and Hail Mary he united us in a gesture of filial devotion.

Pope Francis asked for the favor of our prayers. I trust the clergy, religious, and laity of the Diocese of Rochester will honor his request as we join him ‘in the journey of friendship, of love, of trust and of faith.’

To him we pledge not only our prayer, but also our affection and loyalty.”