Atlanta's Catholic leadership react to selection of American for pope

Local Catholic leaders shocked by American's selection as pope, optimistic about church's future

"I think all of our mouths dropped open in kind of, 'What? A U.S. pope?' said Father Gary Kastl, vicar general of the Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma.

New pope selection provides historic learning lesson for Catholic students

Third and fourth graders at Divine Mercy Catholic School celebrated the election of the first American pope.

Atlanta's Catholic leadership react to selection of American for pope

Excitement and pride filled the offices of the Archdiocese of Atlanta on Thurday as staff and clergy gathered to witness a moment of history.

Students, Archbishop react to the selection of new Pope

As billions around the world watched the election of the new Pope, students at Montgomery Catholic School and the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Mobile were also following the historic event. Students at Montgomery Catholic watched as the first American was chosen as the new Pope. They learned about the traditions and preparation behind this historic event. Yesterday was also the last day for many Montgomery Catholic seniors. The seniors said …