April 19, 2005
Catholics around the world reacted to the news of the new pope, previously known as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. Over at the Church of the Incarnation in Charlottesville, parishioners learned of the news during their mid-day mass on Tuesday, April 19. Some of them were surprised by the news, while others had predicted it. Most, however, are anxious to see in what direction the new German-born Pope will take the church.
"I think he's going to surprise us and be open to listening," said Joan Barnocky, a local parishioner.
"I think he'll do a good job, I don't think he'll make that many changes. I think he'll let the holy spirit continue to guide him," said Frank Squillace, another Parishioner.
The new pope will preside over a mass on Wednesday morning in the
Sistine Chapel, and he'll be formally installed as Pope on Sunday, April 24.
Local Catholics React To New Pope