QC Catholics hope new Pope means good changes - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

QC Catholics hope new Pope means good changes

By: Kate Pabich
kpabich@cbs4qc.com

Simple, and humble that's how local priests are viewing the new pontiff, and Quad City Catholics think Pope Francis could really change things.

"I think maybe this is the beginning of people coming back to God," said Trish Sirna, Catholic

He's the first Pope to take on the name Francis, and local priest, Chuck Adam, said it says a lot.

"Even the name Francis, it seems to me he's sending a signal out about the need for humility and for helping of the poor and what the church is really all about and that's loving each other," said Father Richard Adam, Sacred Heart Cathedral. 
 
St. Francis of Assisi was a man who gave up his worldly possessions and lived among the poor and Trish Sirna says she sees the similarities.

"I'm very excited he seemed like such a humble man and I loved how he said pray for me, and it was so enriching I feel very strong about it," Father Chuck Adam, St. Ambrose University.

She says hopefully Catholics in the area will follow suit.

"We are in such need here, we have the clothing center across the street, and food pantry that maybe this will be an awakening," said Trish Sirna.

And she's not the only one with faith in the new pontiff, fellow Catholic Theresa Butler, agrees.
 
"I hope it makes the Quad Cities get out there and really start to help the poor," Theresa Butler, Catholic.