Lose the lace

 

 

It is easy to come across a number of people online who lash out against Pope Francis.  I guess they don't like the things he says, which often, from what I've seen, represents what we know to be the inclusive way of Jesus.

When he speaks of being non-judgmental and welcoming everyone, those who have a personal agenda, or a vendetta against others, often campaign against him.

Sometimes, it seems, he speaks off the cuff, but how can you not like someone who says things like this?

"I believe it is essential today that we abandon the rigidity of the past, and distance ourselves from a Church that points the finger in
condemnation . . . It is therefore important to preserve and promote the faith by placing ourselves close to the people, leaving our embroidery, frills, and lace cuff in the closet and concentrating instead on the Christian message of compassion and closeness." (Pope Francis LIFE)

He's not really talking about style, but what it represents of days gone by.  He was raised in Argentina, close to the poor, and as he moved up the "ranks" in the hierarchy of the Church, he promised himself that he would never forget them.

And he hasn't.

Rigidity and condemnation by superiority sets a priest apart from the poor, and Pope Francis rejects any such pretentiousness.  Pope Francis  is a defender of those who are on the margins.

And we should be, as well, even if it moves us out of our comfort zone. It is through "humble piety" that faith is transmitted in a "simple and authentic way." 

The way Jesus did.

To attempt to do so any other way, especially by force, becomes a futile exercise.

Janet Cassidy
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