Methodist Church welcomes Pope Francis

The President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conferencehave welcomed the election of Pope Francis:

"We welcome Pope Francis' election, and offer our prayers forhis papacy. Methodist people cherish their place in the worldwideChurch, and the election of a Pope from outside Europe reminds usof our global mission. We look forward to our continuing joint workwith our Roman Catholic sisters and brothers wherever possible. Wepray that all church leaders listen to the voices of the poor andthe oppressed, and speak out for justice, as we share God'slove."

The Revd Dr Mark Wakelin, President of the MethodistConference
Mike King, Vice-President of the Methodist Conference