Mission San Buenaventura celebrates pope selection

You could hear the mission bells ring for five minutes outside the Old San Buenaventura Mission when the new pope was chosen.

Although staff members were surprised it happened so quickly, they were ready to drape gold and white bunting on the chapel doors in honor of the pope.

Father Tom Elewaut said there was some singing and dancing in his office when the pope made his first appearance. Like so many people around the world they watched it on TV.

Spanish-speaking visitors smiled when they learned Pope Francis is from Argentina.

His father was from Italy, so the choice brings Catholics from many continents together.

Father Elewaut said he was thrilled Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was the first to choose the name Pope Francis after Francis of Assisi.

Francis of Assisi left his wealth behind and went to serve the poor. That inspired the Franciscans to build California missions.

A special Mass will be held in Pope Francis’ honor at 7:30 Thursday morning. Everyone is welcome.

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