This week all ears and eyes are tuned into the conclave in Rome. Who will become our next pope?
As I write this blog, the cardinals are all gathered in the Sistine Chapel to pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in their voting. We also join them in praying to the Holy Spirit for the new pope.
I have seen six different popes in the Catholic Church during my lifetime, beginning with Pope Pius XII and ending with Pope Francis. I was very young when Pope John XXIII called the Second Vatican Council together in 1962. It was a very exciting time in the life of the Church! Vatican II was a milestone in the life of the Church, bringing the Church into the modern world, transcending cultures, and making the Church relevant in our times. Pope Paul VI continued the work of Vatican II, bringing Vatican II to a conclusion in 1965. Pope Paul emphasized evangelization. A going out to all people and proclaiming the “Good News” of Christ! Pope John Paul I had a very short time as pope, but I do remember his warm smile and friendliness. Pope John Paul II had a long time as pope and his influence is keenly felt. He was the Polish Pope, who reached out to all. He became very influential in his native Poland, bringing it to peace.
Pope Benedict XVI was a theologian in the Vatican II council and he brought a keen knowledge of theology to our understanding. Pope Francis showed us another global perspective as he reached out to all people. He showed us by his life of poverty, how to live like Christ among the people.
The popes that have served in my lifetime brought to the Church what was needed in our times. I am confident the Holy Spirit will give us the right pope for our times.
