Pope urges Catholics to let grace transform them

During his Easter Monday address, Pope Francis said that Catholics must allow the grace of their baptism and of the Eucharist to transform their lives and make them instruments of God's grace in the world, according to Catholic News Service.

Pope Francis was elected on March 13, a little after 2 p.m. EST. After five ballots, the 115 electors of the Papal Conclave which began March 12 chose Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires, Argentina as the new Holy Father.  The faithful are encouraged to continue their prayers for the new pope, for Pope-emeritus Benedict and for the future of the Church.

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Bishop Hurley celebrates Mass for Pope Francis  
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Bishop Hurley's statement on the election of Pope Francis
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Parish Resources from the Office for Worship
Resources for the election of a new pope

In the above EWTN interview conducted six months ago, the future pope, then Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, discusses His Holiness Benedict XVI's call for a Year of Faith, Latin America as a spiritual resource for the universal Church, the theological virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity, and much more.

Pope Benedict's Resignation & the Papal Transition
Citing health reasons, Pope Benedict XVI announced on Feb. 11 that he would resign from the papacy at the end of the month following eight years as pope. Read the full text of the pope's declaration on the Vatican website. In a final communication on Twitter on his last day as pope (Feb. 28) he wrote "Thank you for your love and support. May you always experience the joy that comes from putting Christ at the (center) of your lives."

Thank you Pope Benedict!
On Thursday, Feb. 28, after addressing the Cardinals, Pope Benedict XVI left the Vatican and was flown over the city of Rome by helicopter to Castel Gandolfo. At approximately 2 p.m. EST the doors of Castel Gandolfo were closed by the Swiss Guard bringing to a conclusion the papacy of Pope Benedict.