Fr Errol
Fernandes SJ describes fellow Jesuit, Pope Francis, as a pastor and a solid
guide for the faithful and the consecrated. For the expert in communications
and new technologies, the presence of a Jesuit for the first time at the helm
of the Church underscores "the Church's openness and the tangible presence of the
Holy Spirit at the conclave." "Many think that Jesuits are too radical and so not very suited for positions that require one to be diplomatic. Yet, we have a pope who is primarily a pastor and this is probably what the Church needs at this stage in its history."
Francis, Fr Fernandes said, "is a man who is down to earth and has fantastic people skills. Being a religious and a cardinal, he will also be aware of how both priests and religious think and so will be able to reach out to both groups. Being a man who is in touch with people, he will also be able to take the laity along."
Jorge Bergoglio was not among the favourites. For the Indian clergyman, this factor shows "that the cardinals in the conclave made the best choice without outside influence."
"The Holy Father has an enormous task ahead of him. I know that he will be able to accomplish it with the equanimity he learnt when he did the Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius as a novice and before his final vows as a Jesuit."