Things I Love About Pope Francis
Things I Love About Pope Francis
The current Pope gets so much hate from conservative Catholics. Some Catholics think he is not a legitimate Pope. I thought I'd spread some love and positivity by sharing my reasons why I love Pope Francis.
1) His preference for simple clothes
While I understand and appreciate that leaders sometimes need to wear fancy clothes that are a symbol of their authority (and I like to see leaders wear some bling every now and then), the Holy Father's preference for more simple attire is refreshing and Christ-like.
2) His visit to the US and his address to a joint session of the US Congress
One of the many moments in my life that made me feel proud to be an American and a daughter of the American Revolution.
3) When he comforted a boy who asked if his deceased Atheist father is in Heaven
Just watch this video. Who didn't love this sweet and precious moment?
4) His TED talks (and his openness to using technology in general)
He did say the Internet is a gift from God. He also has consistently warned against abusing it, over-using it, and relying on it too much.
5) His pastoral approach to leading the Church
From his encyclicals on a loving, brotherly society and stewardship of our planet to his interactions with the least among us.
6) When he Skyped with the astronauts aboard the ISS
This was such a treat. I still watch it every now and then.
7) When he met Spider-Man
8) When he stopped the Popemobile to go and pray over a Chilean policewoman who got thrown off her horse
9) Holy Thursday Washing of Feet ceremony
This pontiff isn’t afraid of making a splash with the Washing of Feet ceremony on Holy Thursday. In past years, he’s washed the feet of prison inmates and refugees. The 12 people chosen are a diverse range of religious affiliations: Catholic, Orthodox, Coptic Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu.
One year, women were among the 12 people chosen to have their feet washed by the Pope. It was the first time the Pope included women in the Washing of Feet ceremony.
10) When the Atlanta Hawks sent him a personalized MLK Day jersey, he signed and blessed it.
11) When he married a couple on the papal plane
12) When he made a heart sign from the papal plane
13) When he stopped his motorcade to bless a disabled girl
14) When he sent a message to the people of the United States after the siege on Congress
15) When he sent a telegram to King Charles offering his condolences on the passing of the King's mom, the late Queen and commending her into God's hands
16) His support of the Olympics as a way to build fellowship and fraternity amidst some peaceful and healthy competition
17) When he hugged a man with a rare skin condition
This pope truly is a living example of the teachings and ways of Christ.