The election of Pope Francis has been widely welcomed going by the positive comments in the media. He is described as a simple, frugal and down to earth person with genuine concern for the poor.That is exactly what the church needed in these trying times as its power base has been slowly chewed away by evangelical movements, especially in South America where it enjoyed a 40% following.The new blood infused in the scandal-ridden church will be more than just a shot in the arm, it will bring hope to the faithful, that maybe this pope will right the wrongs ignored by his predecessors. It is everyone’s hope that Pope Francis will help cleanse the damage done to the church by taking advantage of his pious pedigree to help create a better and peaceful world.No where would it be more welcome than in Rwanda, if the Vatican exhibited some kinds of contrition for the past. People betrayed by some members of the church need closure.The path to reconciliation might be twisty and ridden with obstacles, egos might be hurt, but the best remedy for any ailment is acceptance. Instead of sweeping the dirt under the carpet, the church should face its problems head on; billions look up to it for guidance.