DELMARVA - Local Catholic organizations expressed joy and shock as they learned Pope Leo XIV is the first Pope from the United States.
Inside St. Ann's Catholic Church in Bethany Beach, a crucifix hangs high in the sanctuary for all to see.
Tish Galu is a member of this church and also the president of the St. Vincent de Paul Society of the Council of Wilmington.
"We are a group of friends guided by gospel values, growing together spiritually in service to those who are in need in our communities," said Galu.
Galu says she was overcome with emotions as she learned who the pope is.
"It was tense, and exciting all at the same time. Then, learning that it was Pope Leo and that he was from America, and learning more about him, it was a little overwhelming," said Galu.
Galu shared she believes the papal name Leo was chosen as a reflection of Pope Leo XIII who she says understood the importance of helping people and spreading the gospel.
"It's not a 'I think I'm going to volunteer at the food pantry' no, it's a calling from God to be part of this mission, to go out to the world," Galu expressed.
A calling she says resonates with her and the work she does.
Bob Krebs is the communications director for the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington, which oversees Catholic Charities.
"I think the universal reaction was shock because many of us thought that we would never live to see a pope from the United States," said Krebs.
He says the pope epitomizes their mission.
"To feed his sheep, feed Jesus's sheep, to be there to help the people of our parish or our Diocese, to help the poor, to feed the hungry, to do all those things that, that Jesus calls us to do.
Krebs says he's overcome with joy to have yet another pope with a commitment to the people.
Galu and Krebs are just two of many Catholics on the coast who say they're looking forward to continuing their mission of spreading the gospel, sharing the love of Jesus Christ and helping those in need.