SAN ANTONIO -- A special mass was held Wednesday night to celebrate the new pontiff from Argentina, Pope Francis I. More than 500 people packed the pews of the San Fernando Cathedral cheering as Archbishop Garcia- Siller chanted "Que viva el papa" or "Long live the pope"
"I'm glad it happened in my lifetime, that I got to see a pope from Latin America, a Hispanic pope, I didn't think I would see that, " said Catholic Antonia Garza.
In a press conference Archbishop Garcia-Siller told the media the election of Pope Francis is a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church. "Pope Francis showed his humble and pastoral character when, before he gave his first papal blessing to the world he asked for the prayers and blessings of the people, " said Archbishop Garcia- Siller.
The Archbishop went on to say Pope Francis has a history of speaking courageously for Catholic values and has been a voice for the poor, and marginalized, the value of every human life, and the authentic teaching of the Catholic Church.
"I ask all Catholics, and people of good will to hold our new pope up in prayer so that he will be guided by the Holy Spirit, " added Archbishop Garcia- Siller.
Archbishop Gustavo- Siller said Pope Francis is the first Jesuit priest to become a pope.
