After the white smoke rose in Rome, Erie's new Bishop Lawrence Persico, joined other officials of the Diocese of Erie to watch TV coverage on the big screen in the auditorium at Saint Mark Center. Argentine Cardinal Bergoglio was not a name circulating around the room as a possibility. They actually had to look him up on the Internet for a little biographical information.
With much speculation that the conclave of cardinals would be divided between traditionalists and reformers some were not expecting a decision so soon. In the end, the selection process followed a time frame typical of the past six conclaves. Bishop Persico was surprised a decision was reached so quickly. "Personally I am surprised," said Bishop Persico, "I didn't think it would happen that quickly, but when the Holy Spirit is leading and directing the work a decision comes together and that's what we had here."
After listening to the first blessing by the newly elected Pope Francis I, Bishop Persico added, "What struck me the most was his humility, he actually asked people to pray for and bless him before he blessed them, a real sign of his humility."
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