I'm very much enjoying the Holy Father's visit here. Thanks to all the coverage in English, without the tediousness of translators, I think I've been able to grasp so much better who our Papa is.
And I really, really like what I've seen and heard. Until this week, I've been mostly neutral about him.
There's a certain buzz that's tangible in the crowds at the papal events, even if you're not there to witness it for yourself. The leader of over one billion Catholics, here with us! Geez, talk about special. :) I only wish I could have gone to New York City for the Mass at Yankee Stadium tomorrow...it's only three hours away.
Benedict, at first, came off as a mostly intellectual man. This visit has shown me his emotional, caring side--a true love of a shepherd for his sheep. To know that he cares about us so deeply, even though he'll only meet a fraction of us in his life, is touching.
Having him in this country has been a blessing. It's gotten all sorts of people talking--religious and secular, Christian and not--about God, faith, and what it all means. Not many things have that sort of impact. It comes at a time when a firm voice of Truth is needed as the country falls to moral decay.
For me, it has been a renewal, especially as he speaks to the youth. It helps to know that I'm not alone in my journey, and I never will be.
This week more than ever, I'm proud to be Catholic.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Did someone call the PapaRatzi?
It's going to be an exciting week. America needs the voice of the Holy Father now more than ever, but whether the country listens or not is another story, I'm afraid. Nevertheless, I pray for his success here. It's his 81st birthday today! He really seems to be enjoying himself already. Very cool.
Some photos of his address at the White House, courtesy of EWTN.com:
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