Why is the Catholic Pope important? No one else leads the largest body of Christians in the world … more than a billion Catholics. His power for good or bad is enormous.
The new Pope Francis was the archbishop of Buenos Aires, so he is the first American Pope. He is reported to be a man who cooks his own meals and rides a public bus to work. He has spent a lot of time in the slums and reportedly considers social outreach to be the essential business of the church.
The Catholic Church’s recent problems are well-publicized. How will this Pope handle questions over sexual abuse, women’s roles in the church, and gay marriage?
He is said to be a soft-spoken man. Can quiet words and a gentle spirit have the impact the world demands of its leaders?
The Cardinals have chosen a man who has shown some charisma; he is already being called a “people’s pope”.
They hope the man’s character will come through and he will be a strong leader.
Our thought for today is from Abraham Lincoln:
“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.”