It's kinda humorous that we are seeing the changes Francis is trying to enact WRT the pomp and regalia of the office of the Papacy. I recall a specific discussion with a certain rabid RC over whether or not the new Pope, whoever he might be, would try to resolve some of the excesses of the Vatican and try a more humble approach where the poor really WERE being thought of more than the continuation of the royal regalia surrounding the office. This person got quite incensed that anything about the wealth and trappings of wealth around the Papal office was even questioned much less diminished in any way. Well, I guess the joke's on him since Pope Francis seems to have taken the idea to heart. No doubt he has MANY enemies already and he's been at the job less than a year!
I tend to think He is relying on God more than any man....at least He comes across as that. He seems to be “real” about what he believes and his choice of how he lives and speaks as a servant of Christ, rather than a servant of an organized religion.
I recall Him telling the leadership they might be sorry they voted for him. ...no doubt, after he’s thrown off some of the trappings, there are those who have done exactly that.
Even so.....He could not have attained his position apart from others within the Vatican who definately wanted him there and supporting him.
Interesting to watch him as he moves among his followers. They always have greeted a pope with open arms...but this is different...he relates to them...and for them.