Francis Effect

The “Francis Effect” – – a renewed interest in the Church by many people and a return to her embrace – – is tangible here in New York these days as we prepare to welcome him in a month.

His sincerity, warmth, simplicity, joy, and humility have captivated a world would even irreligious people admit is spiritually searching.

Thus do we hope that the Holy Father’s impending visit will indeed be an occasion of revival, a spark to our faith, hope and love.

I am especially glad that the press, media, and journalists are fascinated by him, and are eagerly reporting on what he’ll say and do.

One temptation we all face is to presume that the Pope will come with a mainly worldly message.  Thus, many wonder what he’ll say to the president, to the congress, or what political and economic statements he’ll make.  It’s natural to ponder what he might teach about capitalism, foreign policy, immigration, religious freedom, the equal protection of the life of the unborn baby, the environment, marriage, family, education, the poor.

I am sure he will touch on those important issues, and hope he does, as we can all benefit from seeing the light of the Gospel upon controversial timely topics.

But . . . Pope Francis is not coming as a politician, an economist, a scientist, an ethicist, a social commentator.

Pope Francis will come as a pastor, an evangelist, an apostle.

He will speak of God and His Son, Jesus

of faith, prayer, eternal life

of God’s lavish grace and mercy,

of the Bible and Revelation,

of the Church and the sacraments,

of conversion of heart, following God,

and turning from sin!

He will speak tenderly and softly to our hearts and souls, where God’s Spirit dwells . . . and from those words will come clear challenges for the way we live, the way we treat ourselves, one another, and creation.

If you want a model for what Pope Francis will say, or the topics he will address, look to the prophets of Israel like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel; or look to Jesus, Saint Paul, and the apostles.

Most commentators will concentrate on what the Holy Father is saying about this earthly kingdom; he’ll be paying more attention to the next world, conscious of the mandate of Jesus; “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God . . . .”