During the wondrous early weeks of the Franciscan papacy, I often worried that the Pope could not possibly be as amazing as he seemed. A dozen years later, I realize I need never have doubted. Now the case is, sadly, closed. Francis was a gift to humanity.
Great story, Bob. Francis was much loved around the world for his humanity and his embrace of issues that are dear to most of the public. Conservative Catholics had much to say about his day to day leadership in Rome, his liturgical unorthodoxy, and his loosening of official attitudes about the LGBTQ commuinity. However, I'm reminded of what the great Maria Callas said when told that "some people don't like her voice." Her response: "the hell with them". The hell with Francis' critics; he had his own voice that was admired by the public. He was a man for the ages. and he will surely be remembered like his namesake, with reverence, respect, and love.
Love this story, Bob ! You were so lucky for that opportunity -- thank you for sharing !
And yes, I too was greatly saddened by the death of Pope Francis, especially after his miraculous (?) recovery from a serious illness. I'm not a practicing church goer, but I developed a fondness for the Pope early on and was delighted by his views on the environment, nature and our duty to care for "the least among us." What a tremendous loss this is for the world.
Pope Francis, an Argentinian, was a true blessing for the South American community. His vision of the consequences of Climate Change on immigration was premonitory, and we are only at the beginning.
Yes, Barry, he celebrated Mass in Candlestick Park. I suspect you probably volunteered to usher this big event, since you were always generous with your time.
During the wondrous early weeks of the Franciscan papacy, I often worried that the Pope could not possibly be as amazing as he seemed. A dozen years later, I realize I need never have doubted. Now the case is, sadly, closed. Francis was a gift to humanity.
Hopefully, Adrienne, he is a gift who will keep on giving.
Great story, Bob. Francis was much loved around the world for his humanity and his embrace of issues that are dear to most of the public. Conservative Catholics had much to say about his day to day leadership in Rome, his liturgical unorthodoxy, and his loosening of official attitudes about the LGBTQ commuinity. However, I'm reminded of what the great Maria Callas said when told that "some people don't like her voice." Her response: "the hell with them". The hell with Francis' critics; he had his own voice that was admired by the public. He was a man for the ages. and he will surely be remembered like his namesake, with reverence, respect, and love.
Amen, John.
What a brilliant, funny, and touching tribute! Thank you Bob and Francis!
Much appreciated, Brendan. Thanks for reading.
Love this story, Bob ! You were so lucky for that opportunity -- thank you for sharing !
And yes, I too was greatly saddened by the death of Pope Francis, especially after his miraculous (?) recovery from a serious illness. I'm not a practicing church goer, but I developed a fondness for the Pope early on and was delighted by his views on the environment, nature and our duty to care for "the least among us." What a tremendous loss this is for the world.
Thank you again, Jeanine (from Rancho Yolo)
Jeanine -
You are so right. He had a heart for the underdog, the migrant, the dispossed. And he welcomed everything into the Church.
I'm not Catholic, and I loved him, too. Goodness knows no boundaries.
So well said, Jan.
Thanks a million
🙏🏼 🌎 good looking photo pod
I can't help myself.
Pope Francis, an Argentinian, was a true blessing for the South American community. His vision of the consequences of Climate Change on immigration was premonitory, and we are only at the beginning.
He did everything he could on the environment.
Well done Bob, thanks for sharing a momentous event in your life!
Thanks Drew.
It was so special - and unexpected - to be there. The Lord works in mysterious ways.
Your thoughts are much appreciated.
We are about to embark on a journey to your ancestral land - Ireland.
I will drink your share of Guinness and hoist a few in your honor!
Remember JP 2 visit to San Francisco was a thrill and glad you shared your story about Pope Francis
Thanks
Barry
Yes, Barry, he celebrated Mass in Candlestick Park. I suspect you probably volunteered to usher this big event, since you were always generous with your time.
Thanks Bob! God speed, Francis♥️
Amen, David.