The new Pope is a Jesuit who feels enough kinship with St. Francis to take his name. If he follows the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola and St. Francis of Assisi, the Church will help lead the world into a greater respect for all life on Earth. The Church will banish scandals that harm innocents. It will demand acceptance of all people, despite economic station, politics, gender, or health. It will advance sharing of resources among all peoples. It will cultivate true stewardship of the Earth. In a perfect world, these would lead to universal peace; in our imperfect world, such attitude changes are at least a giant step toward that peace.
Pope Francis has a huge job ahead of him. I wish him well and will be following him with a hopeful heart.