The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI came as a shock to the
entire Church. It had been the first time in centuries that a Pope had decided
to leave the papacy. However, due to health related reasons, he felt as if he
could not perform the duties which the Bishop of Rome entailed. Once the white smoke
had risen towards the sky, the crowd within St. Peter’s square grew in anguish.
I remember sitting in the common room at Saint Vincent College, alongside the
rest of the Theology department and the Benedictine monks, as we waited to see
the face of our new Pope.
The initial message to the crowd, given by the new Pope, is
always significant. It represents to the Church, the thoughts and attitude of
the new Pope as he begins his legacy in the papacy, leading the world wide
Church. Pope Francis began by asking the crowd to pray for Bishop Emeritus Benedict XVI. He said, “Let us all pray together
for him, that the Lord will bless him and that our Lady will protect him.”[1] They prayed together for the
universal Church, so that all may know peace and sense the love of brotherhood.
He stated that his hopes for his papacy are that together, we “may be fruitful
for the evangelization of this beautiful city.”[2]
Pope Francis then requested a prayer
intention from the crowd. This prayer request was unlike any other. He said, “Now
let us begin this journey” and asked for all to pray to the Lord, so that he
may bless him. He asked for “the prayer of the people for
their Bishop.”[3]
This act of humility had already won over the hearts of many, for immediately
people fell in love with Francis. Immediately following this, he blessed the
Church, Urbi et Orbi
meaning “To the City and to the World.”[4]
Pope Francis leaves the crowd by stating that tomorrow, he will pray to the Madonna for the protection of Rome. He chose to begin his papacy in prayer, prayer to the worldwide Church, our Blessed Mother, and God. Pope Francis’ mission thus far has been centered on the evangelization of Christ to the modern world. Reaching out to those of Christian faith and those not of Christian faith. His genuine love for humanity has been shown through his actions. I believe his papacy had begun during a time of uneasiness and unsureness among the faithful. Pope Francis’ message of love and hope set the tone for his papacy. By which he prays “that he may lead the Church for many years to come, and that he would grant peace to the Church throughout the world.”[5] The incredible first words which he had spoken from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, still ring in the hearts of the Church, “Now let’s start working together!” His humble words show that he recognizes the entirety of the Church as the body of Christ.
Now Let’s Start Working Together is great post. law Essay
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