Two

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

It certainly seems that Pope Francis is making quite the reputation for himself. A lot of changes are beginning to ripple, and, truth be told, I think it's a good thing. Church thinking needs to be modernized on certain subjects. Who are we to judge God's own creations? And women certainly need to be granted more equal footing in what service they can offer, if they are willing to do so.

I suppose having a Pope from the Americas was just what Rome needs.

Comments

[the-all-mother.insanejournal.com]

As a Catholic myself I know that change has never been an easy thing for the Church to do. I agree with your sentiments, but I think it's a little early to praise Pope Francis just yet. There's still the matter of the very-much-alive former pope, Benedict, who still maintains influence of his own. I doubt he's going to remain on the sidelines for this.

Sorry, just a little fed up how people of my faith behave at times.

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

They do have very different approaches, but I've not heard much coming out of Benedict lately. He does appear to be taking retirement seriously.

[the-all-mother.insanejournal.com]

I hope that remains the case. There are fears he could become the center for those in the Church who disagree with Pope Francis. I guess there's just a lot of unknowns in this considering a pope hasn't stood down in centuries. I know there are a significant number of Catholics who think the Pope can't legitimately retire and that Benedict could still hold some sway if he chose to use it.

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

Few in our group know that fact better than I do. I won't lie that I don't keep a finger or two on the pulse of the Curia politics.

[the-all-mother.insanejournal.com]

Still, it doesn't hurt to think positive, Father.

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

A little prayer tends to help too.

[divine-mare.insanejournal.com]

I was raised Catholic to the point that as a child I was living in a convent and was a ward of the Church. That said, I have never been more proud of being Catholic as I was after hearing the Pope. Sometimes it's hard when your faith appears to be so close minded and the Pope really spoke what I felt like should be the opinion that we should have.

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

Try being a representative of the faithful with your own flock to tend. But it is refreshing to see some fresh air being breathed into some of the Church doctrine.

[divine-mare.insanejournal.com]

I think it's a needed change that still supports what the Church believes. It wasn't just some publicity stunt, it just showed that we're not really as uptight as people think. I wasn't too happy about him putting his foot down on women having a bigger role in the Church though but tradition is tradition I suppose.

It's strange, balancing my Faith with what I now know about who I am. I'd like to talk to you about it sometime, if you're open to it.

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

Actually, last I had heard, Francis is pushing to allow women to take more active and influential roles in the Church. Not to the point of ordaining women--I fear that's still too radical for the Church as she stands now--but giving them more options than joining choirs and nunneries.

Finding balance can be tricky and delicate. But it would be my pleasure to discuss your concerns and questions.

sorry for super late

[unbiaseddeath.insanejournal.com]

I admit that it surprises me, that you find so much interest in modern religion, given your origins.

'S OK. ^_^

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

Not as much as you might think. After all, I am a priest. Taking an interest in modern religion is rather key to my job.

<3

[unbiaseddeath.insanejournal.com]

But there are many churches/religions.

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

Yes, that there are, but I think by and large they have more similarities than differences. I'm Catholic, personally. Not a choice for everyone, I realize, but it's up to each individual to find their path to spiritual fulfillment. I guide those who are on a path much like my own, and if I come across those who are lost, I invite them to join us in hopes it will lead them to their desired destination.

[unbiaseddeath.insanejournal.com]

I assume your new church frowns upon what I might be?

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

More than likely they would attempt to reconcile your existence with a palatable analog equivalent. The Church has spread as it has through analogies and assimilation. After all, Scripture refers to an Angel of Death. Saints are treated much like the daimones were in history.

[unbiaseddeath.insanejournal.com]

And they would pray to this angel as the Greeks prayed to Murder?

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

Possibly. After all, it's common for petitioners to beseech the archangels.

[unbiaseddeath.insanejournal.com]

I had not thought your religion would approve of Killing. Perhaps I will study more about them.

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

One would think not. And yet, see how many places the Scripture details circumstances when it is not only acceptable but even moral to kill another. The Bible has an incredibly high body count. Thousands fell to David's sword or by his word, and yet he was still considered among the Chosen of the Almighty. The archangels themselves often wield swords and spears. And of course, the were the Crusades and Inquisition, where thousands more died in the name of holy righteousness.

If he without sin is to cast the first stone, then, I can assure you, by all rights, the Church deserves to stand emptyhanded.

[unbiaseddeath.insanejournal.com]

An interesting and welcome perspective. Thank you for such intelligent discourse.

[wind-of-heaven.insanejournal.com]

Certainly. I don't believe faith can grow if it is not questioned once in a while.