New pope leaves Catholics hopeful

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Catholics are hoping for a renewed vision and faith within the church now that a new pope has been chosen to lead them.

Catholic school teacher Corinne Corcoran said, "I would like to see a little more progressive, more inclusive, some women's issues."

MORE | Watch the video with this story to hear what the reaction is at Canisius College. Pope Francis I is a Jesuit and the college is a Jesuit institution

Students from Ambrose Catholic Academy toured the Our Lady of Victory Basilica in Lackawanna Wednesday.

Student Mike Klodzinski opined, "I think more younger people like my age have to go to church more often, and have to learn the importance of going to church on Sunday."

Student Joe Snyder added, "They should just run it the same like it is because I don't want any changes."

Teacher Bill McHugh believes many Catholics are Catholics in name only, and says bringing them back requires drastic changes.

"Women ordained as priests," McHugh said. "That would be an enormous step. It would bring more women to the church."

Understanding the problems of the church and being strong enough to handle them is something Mary Rose, a Catholic parent, is hoping to see in the new pope.

"More understanding, compassion and to be able to understand more people so we can bring back more people to the church," she said.

McHugh added, "We may be one billion Catholics worldwide. But one billion Catholics don't go to church. They don't support the church. Catholics in name only. And our church is suffering."

Statement from Bishop Richard Malone on the election of Pope Francis I:

"It is with profound gratitude to God that I welcome the election of Pope Francis I.

"This is a moment of tremendous grace, demonstrating our most important Catholic conviction, that he is a man selected through the intercession of the Holy Spirit to shepherd the Church for years to come.

"As the first Holy Father from the Americas, I was impressed with Pope Francis' humility and spontaneity as he began his first blessing to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, by asking everyone to pause in silent prayer, to pray for him and bless him. That was a powerful moment.

"I ask the faithful of the Diocese of Buffalo to join me united in prayer as the papacy of Francis I begins. May God bless and guide this humble servant as he leads the Universal Catholic Church."