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Cardinal Dolan issued the following statement March 13 in his role as president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.
The election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who has taken the name Francis, marks a great milestone in our Church. As successor to Peter, our first pope, Pope Francis stands as the figure of unity for all Catholics wherever they reside.
The bishops of the United States and the people of our 195 dioceses offer prayers for our new leader and promise allegiance to him. Intense prayer from all around the world surrounded the election of Pope Francis.
The bishops of the United States thank God for the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the inspired choice of the College of Cardinals. With joy in our hearts, we declare “Ad Multos Annos!” (For many years!)
