Papal positives
Pope Francis’s visit to the U.S. is over, but the spectacular events are a lasting memory. I hated to see it all end. It added so much to our everyday lives, giving us a break from the tedious reporting of the presidential candidates’ latest escapades.
At first I was not that interested, but as the events unfolded, my attention never waned. I had to see every minute of his visit--the parades, the celebration of the Mass, the welcoming ceremonies--every tiny detail was of utmost importance to me.
It was enthralling and uplifting, to say the least, and brought back many precious memories. The High Mass with the incense and Latin responses evoked many past experiences, growing up in the Roman Catholic Church. While these practices are still part of the services of the church, they are not as frequent as they once were as I remember as a much younger person.
Many newscasters were seeking meaning and understanding of the practices, but any Catholic raised in the 1950s and 1960s could explain them as the Mass--the most beautiful ceremony of prayer including all the beliefs of the religion. Mass is said daily in Catholic churches throughout the world--definitely not with as much formality as when the Pope is the main celebrant--but all the basic parts take place each day.
I realized the man himself brings something to us all--a sincerity that cannot be ignored, a humility that is refreshing, and a love that is given freely to everyone.
His sermons brought us all closer to the true meaning of Christianity, emphasizing the need to help the least of our brothers and sisters.
A man of the people, he made himself available by taking part in parades, outdoor ceremonies, and Mass unfolding in such public settings as Madison Square Garden in New York City.
It was interesting to watch on TV as he passed by on his many routes through the cities. The crowds would stand around afterwards in no hurry to leave--savoring each moment and soaking in the essence of a great man. I felt the same as he passed by on the TV screen and would hope to get another glimpse at a different angle.
What a welcome change in these troubled times of violence, mass shootings, and political polarization. I wish we could have bottled the essence of Pope Francis and spread it throughout the U.S. long after his visit, healing the hurts of the population and bringing us closer together while curing the ills of our modern world.
Sure the church really hasn’t changed, but it is still so nice to have someone in charge who leads in such a gentle, kind manner. He reminds me of a sweet old uncle who was always there and would offer kind words and deeds when needed.
I really did not want his visit to end, but he couldn’t take up residence in the U.S. The Vatican beckoned him back for his important work after such a momentous visit to our country.
What a welcome change in these troubled times of violence, mass shootings, and political polarization. I wish we could have bottled the essence of Pope Francis and spread it throughout the U.S. long after his visit, healing the hurts of the population and bringing us closer together while curing the ills of our modern world.
Sure the church really hasn’t changed, but it is still so nice to have someone in charge who leads in such a gentle, kind manner. He reminds me of a sweet old uncle who was always there and would offer kind words and deeds when needed.
I really did not want his visit to end, but he couldn’t take up residence in the U.S. The Vatican beckoned him back for his important work after such a momentous visit to our country.
Thank you Pope Francis for coming to the states and sharing your warmth and love with us. Here’s hoping it will have a lasting impact on our present situation, and we will all be kinder to one another, coming together on pressing issues. One can only hope!
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