Archive: Opinions

For nearly three days, the entire world has been focused on an election in a small principality located in the heart of Italy.  In this independent country, known as Vatican City, 115 men from around the world gathered to elect one from among their ranks to fill the vacancy of the Bishop of Rome and Pope of the Roman Catholic Church.

This single event has captured the attention of Catholics and non-Catholics.  Media outlets from around the world have spent the past 72 hours watching the top of a small chimney to see if the smoke that came out was black, signaling an unsuccessful election ballot or white announcing that 1.2 billion Roman Catholics have a new spiritual leader.

Although I am not a member of the Roman Catholic Church, I have been following the Papal Election with great interest for several reasons.  First, the Catholic Church is a unifying force throughout the world.  It has been a haven for those seeking refuge against tyranny, poverty, and injustice.  In Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America the Catholic Church has provided hope, support, and assistance to the underprivileged, downtrodden, and voiceless.  Without this support, millions would still be under the bondage of oppression

Secondly, the Catholic Church has been remiss in her sacred duty to protect those who are unable to defend themselves.  Young children, teens, and in some cases young men and women have been victimized by the same Church through abuse and indentured servitude.  Their cry for justice, mercy and compassion had gone unheard for many decades, silenced by a frightened hierarchy who had forgotten their solemn oath to serve all humanity.

Finally, and most importantly, I have been watching the events in Rome because I believe that the Church of Rome needs a Bishop and Pope who will return the Church to its rightful mission as stated in Christian Scriptures.   The power and authority of such an institution can be a tremendous force against the evil of this world.  The Roman Catholic Church, among all other religious institutions in the world, is a voice that the entire world listens to.  They may not agree to what is said or written in Rome, but they listen and read.

The new Pope will have an opportunity to reform the church.  He ought to use his power and authority to restore pastoral leadership to the men who serve in this capacity, and open up a dialogue for others to share in the pastoral role.  In Tompkins County alone, I know of a handful of women, born and raised Catholic, but who now serve as pastors and ministers in churches not affiliated with Rome.

In addition, he must address the issue of clergy abuse and bring to justice all involved-the perpetrators, those who withheld evidence or obstructed justice for any reason, and show real contrition for these harmful acts.  Mere apologies cannot restore confidence in any institution guilty of such horrific crimes.

This is why the Pope matters.  No other individual holds such power or can effect change on a global level.  I wish him well.  I wish him courage.  I pray for change.  And that is to the point.

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