Il Papa
This Pope has a history of conscience, charity (in the most religious sense), commitment to the welfare of the congregations under his direct care, and of human beings in general. Many churchmen, of all denominations talk the talk, but he talks it less than he walks it, and he talks it a lot. At 76, he doesn't have a great deal of time left do make whatever changes he could in the church--had he come to the position in his 60s, time would have been more on his side. We see how the office ages our Presidents--it ages popes as well, perhaps more. One quarter of the population of the US identifies as Catholic (either practicing or "recovering"). The worldwide population is massive. And he is the shepherd.
I'm sad because I suspect he was selected BECAUSE he is older than many, and they believe any of the substantive changes he would like to make will never happen because he won't be alive to see them through. Granted, they thought the same of John XXIII (who in my family was always called "The Good Pope," and who spearheaded Vatican II), and they were wrong there. But I fear that the Jesuit who seems to live more like a Franciscan than many in that order will leave no lasting mark--and he is one who I think could save the church. Oh, I don't think he'd allow for the ordination of women, or that priests could once again marry (they used to, for the first 1100 years of the church), but I think his concern for social justice, and his reputation for compassion, could, if he is given enough time.
I am sad because I think the College of Cardinals elected him because they think he will die, but until then it will give them breathing space to prepare for the one they really want. And I fear what that could be.
I'm sad because I suspect he was selected BECAUSE he is older than many, and they believe any of the substantive changes he would like to make will never happen because he won't be alive to see them through. Granted, they thought the same of John XXIII (who in my family was always called "The Good Pope," and who spearheaded Vatican II), and they were wrong there. But I fear that the Jesuit who seems to live more like a Franciscan than many in that order will leave no lasting mark--and he is one who I think could save the church. Oh, I don't think he'd allow for the ordination of women, or that priests could once again marry (they used to, for the first 1100 years of the church), but I think his concern for social justice, and his reputation for compassion, could, if he is given enough time.
I am sad because I think the College of Cardinals elected him because they think he will die, but until then it will give them breathing space to prepare for the one they really want. And I fear what that could be.