Catholics in Santa Cruz react to new American-born Pope Robert Prevost

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Here on the Central Coast, the historic announcement of a new pope was met with celebration. Members of the local Catholic community are expressing a deep sense of hope and faith in what Pope Robert Prevost’s leadership could mean for the future of the Church.

The news of the new pope has sparked excitement and emotion among local residents.

"We're just excited to have, you know, America Pope and he has a beautiful missionary background. And, he also has an, enforced background, which is going, to apply that to the church side. I'm really looking forward to it," Ellie Powers said.

Pope Robert Prevost, the first American ever elected to the papacy, is already forging a strong connection with the faithful across the region.

"It's fabulous in that he is an American priest, and he's willing to follow up in practice. And that's going to be a wondrous thing for America and throughout the whole world," Blanca said.

The announcement was especially moving for Frida Delgado, who said she immediately stopped what she was doing to share the news with her family.

"I heard the news today, that you text it to the group chat that had a new pope, and I came running to the kitchen and telling my mom and my sister like, we have a new pope," Frida Delgado said.

After two days of deliberation by the College of Cardinals, the new pontiff has inspired eager anticipation among Catholics.

"We're all very excited to see where have you hope all the great things that he's going to do for the church as well," Mrabella Delgado said.

Following his election, Pope Robert Prevost stepped out onto the balcony at St. Peter’s Square, offering a prayer and blessing to thousands gathered below.

"It's very wonderful because after he, he came out, to meet the people, he prayed a Hail Mary, a people," Delgado said.

Local church leaders are also optimistic about what this new chapter could bring.

Deacon David Ford, Chancellor of the Diocese of Monterey, pointed to Pope Leo XIV’s extensive background in missionary work and global service.

"I think he brings a great worldwide experience with the church, with, working in the mission field. missionary zeal and working with the poor in South America. He's worked, now in the Roman Curia, which is the organization that helps, to govern the central part of the Catholic Church. So he's obviously a very capable man," Deacon David Ford said.

Cardinal Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, becomes the 267th pontiff in the history of the Catholic Church.