There has been much comment made of the selection of the new Pope: the first Jesuit, and the first Latin American, in Church history to occupy the See of St Peter. I am not sure that I can add anything to the discussion that either has not already been said or will add any merit to the conversation. However, I do wish that all of us would simply take a step back and give the man a chance to make whatever necessary change he deems fit on moving the Church in a new direction.
I am impressed by Pope Francis' example of humility: his
asking for prayer for himself from the faithful before offering his first blessing. His actions at the inaugural mass of stopping the vehicle he was travelling in and going down to welcome and embrace a man who was severely handicapped. There was only one other time where I have witnessed such deep compassion and that was when Mother Teresa welcomed the poor at a service at the Charlotte Coliseum. Francis clearly has a connection with the "least of these" and if that is the only change that comes from his papacy that will be a blessing to us all.
Of course, there are larger and more complex issues: sexual abuse, theological concerns, and a church that seems out of touch to many young people. Let's be honest, the power brokers who run the Vatican will not step aside easily. This is an institution that guards its traditions and any suggestion of change can be seen as a threat to its well-being. Again, I am impressed that the new Pope, it has been reported, has told those in power that they are on notice. They can continue to serve but every position is up for review. Let us pray that Francis will have the wisdom and courage to make the change that is necessary to right the wrong.
The institutional Church is in trouble in most denominations mainly because we have forgotten to take the primary teaching of Jesus and live it out with integrity and truth. In the last week, the new Pope has exemplified for me the teachings of our Lord: ‘I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another’ (John 13:34 and 35).
As Christians around the globe gather tonight to begin the observance of the Triduum, may we remember the words of our Lord, and rejoice that the leader of the largest Christian denomination is seeking to return the Church to its roots: the ministry of servanthood.
Love One Another - Brian
An Invitation: I invite you to join the members of The Community of Saint John this evening at 7:00 pm as we begin the observance of the Great Three Days. We meet at the Barlow Center in Hudson and the service this evening will include readings, footwashing, the eucharist, and the stripping of the altar. You are most welcome to join us and please invite a friend.
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