Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) and The Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston (JCRC) congratulate Cardinal Sean O’Malley and the Archdiocese of Boston and its faithful on the election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina as Pope Francis.

“The spirit and legacy of Pope John Paul II paved a new path between Catholics and Jews and was continued through Pope Benedict XVI,” said JCRC Executive Director Jeremy Burton. “The Jewish community looks forward to continuing our ongoing dialogue and deep relationship with the Catholic community under the leadership of Pope Francis.”

“As a community with deep roots in social justice, we are heartened by the newly-elected Pope’s decision to choose the name Francis, evoking the saint Assisi and his commitment to assisting the poor,” said JCRC President Bill Gabovitch.

“Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio enjoyed a close and warm relationship with the Jewish community of Buenos Aires and a reputation for humility and service to the poor,” added CJP President Barry Shrage. “We look forward to continuing our close working relationship with the Archdiocese and Catholic Charities to strengthen human services for those most in need.”