The Francis Effect

I don't know about you but I love Pope Francis.   He has changed the tone of  the papacy.  He lives with other priests, not in the Apostolic Palace.  He doesn't use fancy vestments,  wear red shoes or ermine trimmed capes.  His "exortation", The Joy of the Gospel, is full of great quotes.  Among them are

• There are Christians whose lives seem like Lent without Easter (6)

•  I prefer a Church that is bruised, hurting and dirty because  it has been out on the streets, rather than a Church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security (49)

•  I hope that we will be moved by the fear of remaining shut up within structures which give us a false sense of security, within rules which make us harsh judges, within habits which make us feel safe, while at our door people are starving and Jesus does not tire of saying to us: "Give them something to eat: (49)

On his birthday he invited several homeless persons to eat with him.  He embraces children and physically deformed persons at his audiences

There are rumors that he is coming to the States next year.  That would be wonderful if it is true.  He claims his English is not good but I think he speaks the universal language of love.

Msgr. Daniel F. Hoye