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New Pope, New Ground

Following celebrations for the historic election of Argentine Pope Francis, it's time to look at the business of leading the world's 1.2 billion Catholics — bureaucracy and all. Host Michel Martin discusses the Pope's future agenda with Reverend Jose Hoyos, of the Diocese of Arlington, and religion professor Anthea Butler.
NPR

It's Russian Mardi Gras: Time For Pancakes, Butter And Fistfights

Across Russia, pancakes and butter abound as the country marks a week-long celebration before the start of Orthodox Lent. Pagan in origin, Maslenitsa calls for plenty of eating, sledding, merrymaking – and even organized fistfights.
NPR

In Argentina, The New Pope Has Many Supporters, And A Few Critics

The new pontiff is widely revered for his many years of work with the poor. But he has not been immune from criticism in a country that has gone through tumultuous times.
NPR

Pope Francis Begins With Prayer, Turns To Challenges

The first pope from the New World must now confront some old problems. He's begun his first full day as head of the church by slipping out of the Vatican to visit an ancient basilica. There, he quietly prayed with priests.
WAMU 88.5

Local Catholics Celebrate Election Of Pope Francis

Catholics in D.C. and Baltimore greeted the election of 76-year-old Cardinal Jorge Maria Begoglio of Argentina, now Pope Francis, with ringing bells and widespread jubilation.

NPR

Pope Francis: A Saintly Name, Hold The 'I'

After his election as pope Wednesday, Jorge Mario Bergoglio chose a name that, for many Catholics, sent an immediate signal of his goal to unite the Roman Catholic Church: Pope Francis. The name also prompted some confusion — over whether it should include "I."
NPR

New Pope 'A Fresh Start,' But Old Problems Are Waiting

Pope Francis is the first pope from Latin America, a choice that makes sense strategically as the church becomes less Europe-centric. But how he will direct the church, which is still dealing with the fallout of the sexual abuse crisis and other challenges, remains unclear.

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