And Cesar Sotolongo, originally from Florida but currently in Lima, Peru, explains that the Latin American way of doing things in a more accommodating manner, rather than the Western-driven methods of leadership, would prove positive for the church, and its followers.

"A person from Latin America thinks in a collective manner rather than individually because society is structured like that," he reflects. "A Latin American pope brings a message of hope for today's society."

Keep it simple!

Sotolongo had another piece of advice for the church -- open up and become more approachable, and you may attract a new wave of followers. And if they're looking for inspiration -- Pope Francis's own austere style of living and worship already set a perfect example.

"The pope should shape the church with what he has been doing during his career [as an example]," he said. "Stay in contact with the people, communicate clearly, promote the unification of faith and ... and represent the word of Jesus."

Meanwhile in Zagreb, Croatia, Ivan Klindic says the pope, and the church, need to rely less on the trappings of wealth and more on helping those in need.

"The pope needs to be more modest, to show that the Vatican isn't based only on money," he said.

And for Martina Lunardelli in Italy, her message for the new pope was even more succinct: Keep it simple.

"I think that the church needs to go back to a simple message which is to love each other and not care about what religion we are or what we believe in," she said.

"I hope he can do this."