Parishioners at San Juan Basilica react to first U.S. born pope, Leo XIV

SAN JUAN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The announcement of the newly elected pope is prompting parishioners to celebrate across the Rio Grande Valley, with many voicing their hopes for the future.

Just as mass was about to begin at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, people started checking their phones and cheering when they found out white smoke was coming from the chimney at the Sistine Chapel.

Church leaders at the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle dedicated their morning service to the newly elected pontiff, Pope Leo XIV.

Mass began with Father Mario Castro saying Habemus Papam, a Latin phrase meaning "We have a pope."

Bells rang as the announcement was made, and claps could be heard throughout the Basilica.

“This is not about a power grab," the priest said. "This is not about a political one, this is about carrying the single most heavy cross that a Christian can carry.”

Others expressed their joy when learning the new pope is American.

"I feel very proud, very proud," Guadalupe Reyna said.

Others like Elia Mendoza believe this will bring great change.

“I feel very proud because so many people have mentioned there would never be an American as a pope," Mendoza said. "I think it is a change. It's a big change throughout the world.”

One thing was clear among the faithful: they want the new pope to embody his predecessor, Pope Francis.

“That’s what we need right now, a pope that is a leader in the same qualities that Pope Francis had, so the church can move forward," Francisco Trevino said.

Others like Rosie Moreno want Pope XIV to have the characteristics of the former pope and his caring for the poor.

"The holy spirit is working overtime for all of us, and I am grateful," Moreno said. “Compassion, mercy, and love... That is what Jesus wants us to be like. That’s what I hope and pray for.”

Elia Mendoza and others say they are receiving the new pope with open hearts.

“Looking forward to all the work he is going to do, and I know all the churches have wished him well, and we welcome him with open arms," Mendoza said.

A ceremonial mass will be held to formally introduce Leo XIV into the papacy.

The mass is usually held about a week after the election.

A date has not been provided yet for when the new pope will be installed.