politica
politica
Pope Francis’s balancing act?
‘who am I to judge?’ While this remark probably derived less from outright advocacy and more likely came under Francis’ wider stance that God’s love and mercy extends to all human beings. Nonetheless, it shows a clear distance from the Church’s usually hard-line positions on similar matters such as evolution and public breastfeeding.
His shift to a more tolerant mindset has excited liberal and progressive supporters and appalled traditionalists. If the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI – the first in 600 years – wasn’t shocking enough, Pope Francis’ unafraid deviation from the status quo
On 13th March 2013, the newly elected Pope Francis addressed the huge crowds of St Peter’s Square with a tone of humbleness, simplicity and humanity. Lacking the regal display of red and gold embellishments worn by his predecessors, the first ever Argentine-born pope wore a plain white cassock with his usual silver cross and in his speech stressed a message of love and prayer for the global community. This same message has been at the heart of his ventures within a modernised style of papacy, centred in diplomacy, charity and activism. From his large number of international visits and unabashed engagement in global issues such as migration and climate change, it is undoubtable that the 266th Pope, born Jorge Bergoglio, intends to outstretch the merciful hand of the Roman Catholic Church far outside the confines of Vatican City. Deeply criticised by traditionalists and praised by progressives, Francis’ challenge lies in maintaining enough support from both groups without alienating either one.
Since his inauguration, he has gained unprecedented global popularity, being named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year in 2013 and boasting 18.1 million followers on Twitter. Nicknamed the ‘People’s Pope’, Jorge Bergoglio rejected the exalted lifestyle normally held by the pontiff by choosing to live in one of the Vatican Hotel suites rather that the luxurious apartments of the Apostolic Palace, and is often seen going out of his way to bless families in the crowds that watch and adore him as he passes. He has shown openness to more dynamic religious debate, interfaith dialogue, and even homosexuality, who when questioned on the topic, famously responded,