Why the new pope is good for all of Christianity

Two weeks ago Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected the 266th Pope. Bergoglio, who will be called Francis, was selected on just the second day of deliberations. More than a billion people worldwide identify themselves as Roman Catholic. That alone qualifies Francis's selection as noteworthy, but the importance of this moment transcends denominational lines. This is a pregnant moment for Christianity as a whole.

Like Easter and Christmas, the selection of a new pope offers Christianity a unique moment in the mainstream spotlight. This is a golden opportunity for an energetic discussion of all manner of subjects. Homosexuality and gay marriage, the role of women in the vocational ministry, and even the necessity of faith in Jesus for salvation, to name just three, are culturally relevant topics that can have eternal implications. Christians everywhere should embrace the chance to spark conversation and critical thinking about some of the biggest questions facing Christianity today.