CNN reported an enthusiastic response from Latin America, and leaders of other faith groups in that region told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette they were pleased by Francis’ elevation and had had a good rapport with him during his time as a cardinal.

The Associated Press posted a video on YouTube of the white smoke that signaled a decision had been made.

The World Jewish Congress is the international organization that represents Jewish communities and organizations in 100 countries around the world. It advocates on their behalf towards governments, parliaments, international organizations and other faiths.  

A March 8, 2012, Religion News Service article describes a study from the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life that found that Jews are the world’s most migratory group.

Read a Nov. 16, 2012, MSNBC article about the ‘Evangelical Immigration Table.”

Shoulder to Shoulder is a national, interfaith campaign “dedicated to ending anti-Muslim sentiment.” More than two dozen faith-based groups have joined the coalition, which has denounced North Carolina’s anti-Shariah law. Christina Warner is campaign director; she can be reached through publicist Samantha Friedman.

Read a Dec. 8, 2012, San Antonio Express-News story about the influence that evangelicals could have on Republican lawmakers’ immigration positions.

Read a Dec. 12, 2012, Salt Lake Tribune article about Colorado’s new immigration compact.

A December 2012 Las Posadas procession in Salt Lake City incorporated the reading of a multifaith statement backing immigration reform. Plans for the event were detailed on The Salt Lake Tribune’s Following Faith blog.