I feel that Francis is a sort of “bridge” between the Old Church (based on tradition, outer authority and suppression of the individual – which his predecessor, Ratzinger, took to ridiculous levels) and the kind of direction the Catholic Church – and others – will have to move if they expect to survive into the future. As head of the Catholic magisterium, Francis does have to represent the party line, and cannot be counted on to fully promote progressive values. But one can hardly fail to notice that the values he does promote are a huge step in the right direction for those hoping to see religions become less literal, and to evolve toward increasing universality, inclusivity, unity.
A Step in the Right Direction by Margaret Johnston
October 7, 2015 by ElderChicks
4 Responses
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ElderChicks 
Thanks, Margaret, for your thoughtful words. ElderChicks can find more of your wisdom in your excellent book, “Faith Beyond Belief.”
Love pope Francis.
Margaret…Very well put. While not a Catholic, I admire this man’s efforts to turn attention and language of Church leadership toward service and away from stringent adherence to dogma. Small steps, perhaps, but very important and hopeful. We need more kindness in this life and his use of this opportunity he has been given is to be applauded.
His concern for the poor really impresses me. If only everyone who has the means to help others would do so, we could erase poverty. Unfortunately so many people just spend their resources on themselves.