A quick thought on Francis
- benjaminsporter
- Apr 21
- 2 min read
Been doing a lot reading today and revisiting old memories. Francis was the Pope when I became Catholic. Because of that, he holds a special place in my heart. I remember him washing the inmates feet, excommunicating the mafia, allowing children to play with robes as he addressed the cardinals.
Because of this, I'm finding it hard to evaluate him, like I find it hard to evaluate my friends and family—they simply exist and are necessary to me. I could describe them, sure, even recognize their failures. But there are no alternatives. As my uncle Bill said after he'd interupted my Dad's important business call to show him his new barbell set, "I don't care if you're annoyed. I'm the card you're dealt."
That said, reading today, I was struck by Francis' innability to satisfy various parties in the Church, and frankly, me. Either he failed to intiate the progressive Catholic eschaton or he unecessarily muddled orthadoxy for the traditionalists—and I think they were both right. And the other stuff. He seemed to play favorites, looking the other way at the corruption of his friends and giving unfair punishments to people who crossed him. He was terribly slow on Rupnik. Why the latin mass gets shut down but the Germans are handled with kid gloves is beyond me.
In this way, Francis was sincere when he told us he was a sinner, and a common one. He looked a lot like me and the other Catholics I know. People who mess up, have to say sorry, are confusing, have good days and bad. But, in his kindness, and at times, elegant wisdom and profound charity, he showed us what we are capable of. How, in prayer, in the sacraments, we can be instruments of God. At least we can show kindness or stick up for the little guy. We can wash people's feet. We can take care of prisoners and refugees. He reminded us that its OK to piss people off. That not everyone has to like you. That your concious is a precious thing.
I can't say whether Francis was a good or bad Pope. I wouldn't know where to start. I can say I loved him—as much as you can love someone you've never met. He helped me become Catholic. he taught me how to do it. And I'll remember that example, keeping him in mind as I stumble my way through faith.
In any event, here are some of the hot takes of the day from two ends of the spectrum on Francis. Interesting reading from both:
Also, for a great run down of the Pope's life and legacy:
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