The Example of Francis

The Example of Francis

This past March, the world was electrified, as Pope Francis stepped out onto the balcony at St. Peter's Square after his election.  But the way in which Francis has electrified the world is quite different from his papal predecessors, and it's what makes his story so interesting and applicable.

Why has this pope been so enthusiastically received and his message embraced by Catholics and people of other faiths, in such a short period of time?  What makes Francis so different?  Could it be that his approach is purely based on helping other people, especially those less fortunate, and that he is demonstrating it so powerfully and so personally?

From the start, Francis has purposely avoided all of the magisterial trappings at his disposal.  He lives in a Vatican hotel, not the grand papal apartments.  He wears simple vestments.  He shuns the "popemobile," preferring to be close enough to people to reach out, touch them, pick up children and bless them himself. 

Francis recently declined to spend time at a formal concert and reception, causing some feathers to be ruffled.  He said his time was better spent working.  One of his first acts as pope was to visit with recovering addicts in a Rome prison. Even the name he selected honors Francis of Assisi, who lived a life of service to the poor.

Virtually his every statement and action reaffirms and demonstrates the need for love, respect, service, and building relationships with others. 

Love over fear. 

Compassion over aggression. 

Reaching out over shutting out.

These principles pave the way to personal peace.  You don't have to be the pope or belong to any specific organized faith community to know this or to live it every day. 

When we operate from a foundation of positive, loving relationships, great things can result.

Be Well,

Eric