TUGUEGARAO CITY, March 19 (PIA) — The clergy of the archdiocese of Tuguegarao here in Cagayan province welcomed with gladness the result of the conclave and welcomed the newly elected head of the Catholic church worldwide–Pope Francis.

In a radio interview, Archbishop Sergio Utleg said the result of the conclave was done through the guidance of the Holy Spirit that is why the clergy believes that Pope Francis’ leadership will bring reforms for the furtherance of catholic church’ development.

Utleg said, though devotees were so hopeful that Manila Archbishop Cardinal Tagle could make it to the Vatican, they express gladness and support to Pope Francis’ leadership.

“The selection of our new Pope, Pope Francis, I believe, is because of the dictate of the Holy Spirit who was with the cardinals who voted for him,” the Archbishop said.

He further said that the Pope is a living testimony and a model of his simplicity and humility in serving God and the people.

He is also hopeful that Pope Francis will be able to resolve the issues and concerns that the Catholic Church is facing now.

Anent this, Archbishop Utleg encouraged devotees to support the leadership of the new Pope by serving God righteously and religiously.