Blog Post #12: Church in the Present

1.  "What Makes Us Catholic?"by Thomas Groome talks about Catholicism in a less conservative way.  The main points of the book are respecting yourself, others and other religions.  Also, the book focuses on catholicity and spirituality in everyone.  Many people say they are spiritual but not religious, however, no one can truly be spiritual without religion as a solid foundation.  Similarly, religion without spirituality cannot truly connect to the religious citizens of the world.  I agree with these main points because revolve around how to make the Catholic church seem more welcoming to more people. 

2.  I learned much more about Pope Francis from the video clips we watched in class.  The topic that surprised me the most was the fact that he was not always liked by everyone.  When he stood firm in the church's beliefs about same-sex marriage, certain people began to criticize him.  Although he was still welcoming of homosexuals, many people were outrageous that he would voice the church's stance.  Some of these people became so against Pope Francis that they accused him of kidnapping.  I found this surprising because most people are thrilled with how Pope Francis leads the church, and it is odd to see certain people so infuriated with him.

3.  Pope Francis has been making different changes that popes have not done before in the past.  He has taken a stand in criticizing the Catholic church and has become more welcoming of all.  Also, he has changed the structure and leadership of the church to make it more accommodating and efficient.  Finally, Pope Francis has shown a certain humility throughout his life, especially as a cardinal.  He always rode the bus with his fellow citizens and spoke to them as he would anyone else.  He would also sit and talk with the homeless and treat them no differently than he would the rich.

4.  I hope the Catholic Church can continue to become more welcoming.  Pope Francis has kept the church's stance on certain controversial topics.  These topics include abortion, same-sex marriage, and many more.  However, he has been able to do so while still being welcoming to people who do not agree with the church's viewpoints.  I hope that future popes will be able to do the same and bring those with differences closer together.  This way, people can feel more comfortable in the church and they won't feel judged. 

I chose this picture because it portrays Pope Francis as the kind, welcoming person he is to all.

"Greens welcome Pope Francis to the U.S." Green Party Watch, 24 September 2015, www.greenpartywatch.org/2015/09/24/greens-welcome-pope-francis-to-the-u-s/.  Accessed 7 May 2018.