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To: NYer
Since his election, several freepers have stated they are drawn to this man's humility and simple lifestyle

That would be, IMHO, the main result of Pope Francis moving from the Apostolic Palace. There are people who, right or wrong, are turned off by the riches of the Catholic church and the lifestyle of the bishops. They will look at the example of Pope Francis and say "maybe the Church is right, after all". I am not a Catholic, but I can relate to him as a fellow Christian and an example of humility. I had never wished I could meet a Pope until now!

8 posted on 03/23/2013 8:31:44 AM PDT by Former Fetus (Saved by grace through faith)
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To: Former Fetus
I had never wished I could meet a Pope until now!

He has made himself accessible to the multitudes. Even his security force are reluctant to admonish him for stepping out of the safety net. The Patriarch of Constantinople has invited Pope Francis to join him on a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands next year. Would that not be an amazing sight!

9 posted on 03/23/2013 8:43:21 AM PDT by NYer (Beware the man of a single book - St. Thomas Aquinas)
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To: Former Fetus; NYer
There are people who, right or wrong, are turned off by the riches of the Catholic church and the lifestyle of the bishops.

"The riches of the Church," such as the cathedrals, the art, the vestments and liturgical furnishings, are part of the world's artistic patrimony and are largely accessible to anyone who can get to where they're located. Many portable items even go on travelling museum exhibits.

The lifestyles and residences of the heirarchy are a different issue, and should, in my opinion, be critically examined by the principals themselves, with the questions, "Is this apostolic? Is this evangelical? Is this the best use of resources to win souls?"

I think this is what Pope Francis is doing now, and has done as Archbishop and Bishop. To paraphrase George Weigel, it seems clear that the Pope sees himself, not as the CEO of an international corporation (who deserves a luxe corner office and fancy car, of course!), but as a shepherd of souls.

19 posted on 03/23/2013 11:28:10 AM PDT by Tax-chick (Why should I get Valium when wine comes in 5-liter boxes?)
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