(KCEN) -- Catholic faithfuls across South America celebrate the election of the first South American Pope.
Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina is now Pope Francis.
In Chile, Santiago's Archbishop told worshippers the appointment of Bergoglio was a testament to the strength of the church in Latin America.
Worshippers said they hope the new pope will salvage the church's battered image after years of scandal.
In Peru, scores of worshippers crowded the city's downtown to celebrate the election.
Peru's president called him an, "Argentine brother."
In Bogota, the election of Bergoglio was a surprise, a very welcome surprise.
Latin America is home to more than 40 percent of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics.
