The Pope's visit

At one time in European life, the Pope decided who would be a king or an emperor.   A monarch who didn't heed his directives could be excommunicated, a far more serious fate than we regard today.
He fielded armies, and paid for them with a vast wealth that eclipsed most national treasuries.  Protectors like Charlemagne, who came to the rescue of the Pope, Was crowned the first Holy Roman Emperor by the pontiff.


The Pope's actual title, Bishop of Rome, hints at the parallel development of the Church with the Roman Empire.  And it was the growing tolerance of Christianity by the emperors that contributed to the ascendency of the Church.  Organizing principles adopted by the Church closely aligned with the empire's structure and hierarchy of authority.  The names pontiff and vicar were adopted from Roman official positions.  The Pope's red shoes is not a Versace style influence, it is because the Roman emperor wore red footwear.


Of course, the spiritual authority over Roman Catholics worldwide has always exerted great influence.  Authority was always inherent in the Pope's position at the head of the Holy See.  But a dignified, even saintly Pope amplified the reverence for his position and his views.  This was on my mind in watching Pope Francis on his visit to America. 


He used his authority to deliver messages both spiritual and political.  His personal humility was apparent in every venue and with every set of prepared remarks.  And he didn't shy away from the sexual abuse scandal, any more than his concern about global warming.


I was proud of how my country welcomed the pontiff, who is after all also from the Americas.  I hope people will look past the media hype and yammering and reflect on his message.  You don't have to be a Catholic to receive his good news.