The possibility of the first Canadian pope is being embraced by the townsfolk in La Motte in northwestern Quebec, the hometown of Marc Cardinal Ouellett.

Resident Leo Paul Larouche says it would be an honour to have one of their own become pope.

"In this small town of 400 people, to see a pope emerge from here, that would be incredible."

Larouche grew up with Ouellett in this small village. He says he sees his mother every Sunday at mass and every year or two, the Cardinal returns to his roots.

"He shakes everyone's hand," says Larouche. "This is a great human being."

He adds that everyone is watching news from the Vatican very closely and are pretty confident Ouellett will be elected.

 photo of municipal office in La Motte, Quebec (wikipedia)