Habemus Papam: Francis I Elected New Pope

Update: 4:10 p.m. March 13

Faced with a huge challenge, Pope Francis is asked by the Catholic Church to take on a role that is fraught with conflicts, according to CBS. Obviously, he was chosen for his intelligence.

The name Francis was chosen by the new Holy father as Saint Francis came from a wealthy family, yet gave that all away to be with and help the poor. Saint Francis is known as the patron saint of animals and the environment.

Forty percent of the world's Catholics live in Latin America.

Update: 3:55 p.m. March 13

Pope Francis is a modest man of 76 years. He delivered his first prayer, The Our Father, praying for the world and the path of this church. "Pray in silence for me," he asked. To all men and women of good will he gave his blessing.

Pope Francis is a pope of firsts; the first pope from the New World, and the first Jesuit Cardinal to become pope. He seems to exude warmth and compassion... he is said to be humble, and has supported social justice. Francis is known for his service to the poor.

Part of his appeal seems to be that he is a good administrator, and the Catholic church is in need in that area.

Update: 3:20 p.m. March 13

According to MSNBC, Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina will take the biblical name of Francis I on the 13th March, 2013 as the newest Holy Father, the Pope. The large crowd in Saint Peter's Square cheered and cried out with explosive joy as the electors let the waiting world know that a New Pope has been chosen in Vatican City, Rome, Italy.

You don't have to be Catholic to understand the history of this church and the thrill of this new today.

Original Post:

White smoke billows from the sistine chapel, announcing the 266th Bishop of Rome, known as the Pope, in Vatican City.

Check in with the Brookfield Patch as developing details are posted.