Emmanuel Magazine September/October 2014 | Page 4

Emmanuel FROM THE EDITOR I recently spent some time at my order’s Generalate in Rome. Being in Rome is always special. The city is filled with magnificent churches, hallowed archeological sites, great restaurants, and friendly people. Everywhere we turned this time, it seemed, there were copies and representations of Pope Francis’ pectoral cross, available in every price range and medium—except gold! The humble silver cross with the image of the Good Shepherd on it was made for Francis when he was the archbishop of Buenos Aires by Giuseppe Albrizzi, who lives in the northern Italian town of Vidigulfo. In the May 2014 edition of Messenger of Saint Anthony, Renzo Allegri writes of its deep significance for the Holy Father. He describes the cross as Francis’ “inseparable companion,” always close to his heart: “When he became the archbishop of Buenos Aires and later a cardinal and primate of the Argentine church, Archbishop Bergoglio continued to lead the lifestyle of a simple parish priest. He refused to reside at the Archbishop’s House, preferring instead to live in a small flat with a retired priest, and he cooked his own meals.” “Whenever he had any free time available from his numerous duties as archbishop, he went to the slums of Buenos Aires (favelas). At that time, Archbishop Bergoglio did not even have a car. He just used the buses or the subway. During the trip from the Archbishop’s House to the favelas, located on the outskirts of the city, he would often clutch his pectoral cross—the symbol of his desire to shepherd the poor. The cross had more than a sentimental value for the man who wore it; it also meant something for those he visited. The outcasts of society in the favelas touched it too; they kissed it and bathed it with their tears while the archbishop listened to their stories.” Pope Francis has frequently challenged his brother bishops and priests to avoid careerism, to live simpler lives close to the people, and to 354