From the day he was elected Pope up to the present, Pope Francis continue to capture the hearts of the public. A darling of the press and the people’s pope but if there are 10 things the Pope wants us to know, what would it be? Read on below.
1. A Poor Church for the Poor
Pope Francis is the first Pope from Latin America and the developing world thus he is very outspoken on social inequalities and maintains a simple lifestyle.
2. Humility
At the time of his election, Pope Francis appeared to the crowd without the traditional papal finery and knelt before the cheering crowd.
3. Stay close to the people
The Pope is determined to remain close to the people and will not allow any barrier that may disconnect him from them
4. Never give up on God’s mercy
The Pope once said in a mass that the Lord’s strongest message is mercy.
5. We’re all Franciscans now
Upon his election, Claudio Cardinal Hummes of Brazil told him, “don’t forget the poor” which made the Pope think of Francis thus adopting his name.
6. The faith must be proposed, never imposed
The Pope recognize and respect other people’s belief (or the lack thereof) but the Pope considers everyone as a child of God.
7. We’re not a Non-Government Organization (NGO)
The Pope is committed to help the poor through the social commitments of the Catholic Church and not as a NGO.
8. Never Give in to Pessimism
His remarks to cardinals after being elected as Pope: “Let us never yield to pessimism…let us not yield to pessimism or discouragement.’’
9. Have a sense of Humour
The Pope likes to display a winning sense of humor to the world
10. The Importance of Unity
As a product of a Jesuit order, the Pope is accustomed to different political outlook, theological stance and personal style but believes that unity is the most important amidst diversity.
As children of God, the Pope wants us to dedicate our hearts and service to the Lord. May these anecdotes help us capture God’s heart above all.
*with excerpts from 10 Things Pope Francis Wants You to Know by John L. Allen, Jr
