It’s refreshing to finally have a pope who is ready to accept people for who they are, while not compromising the Catholic Church’s doctrine.
Even though Catholic churches will not begin to accept homosexuality, abortion or endorse the use of contraceptives, Pope Francis’ recent remarks that the church has become too focused on these “small-minded rules” was encouraging to hear.
Increasing numbers of people have felt ostracized by the church over the last several decades either because they are divorced, gay or had children outside of marriage. The church’s handling of priests who sexually abused children was also a major disappointment to many.
The Catholic Church has been in need of a pope like Francis to reinvigorate Catholics and even draw new members. Even though some are resistant to the change, it’s important if Catholics want to keep a viable membership.
It also seems the pope’s comments were well-received.
According to people all over the world who were interviewed by the Associated Press following the pope’s remarks, they agree with Francis, and view his words as a breath of fresh air.
“I think he’s spot on,” said Shirley Holzknecht, 77, a retired school principal, who was attending church services in Little Rock, Ark., in an interview with the AP. “As Catholic Christians, we do need to be more welcoming.”
And in Brazil, those sentiments were echoed by a 22-year-old student. Maria das Gracas Lemos said Francis is “bringing the church up to date.” She said children of divorced parents used to be barred from some schools in Brazil.
“All that has changed. In Brazil, people are no longer rejected because they are divorced,” Lemos said. “The church has to catch up with changes in society, even if it still doesn’t admit divorce.”
That’s the key.
The church doesn’t have to change its core belief system to be able to welcome parishioners to Mass or help out with its charitable functions, like public meals, food pantries and mission trips. Many people who grew up going to church with their parents haven’t reconnected with a church of their own, and the Catholic Church would be well-served to welcome those people with open arms, even if it doesn’t condone each and every person’s individual choices.
Although many would like to see the Catholic Church change its tune on issues like gay marriage, women being able to serve as priests and divorce, it’s heartening to see some movement to at least be more accepting of people in today’s society.
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Today’s editorial was written by City Editor Robyn Burnham Rousseau on behalf of the Journal Tribune Editorial Board. Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski by calling 282-1535, ext. 322, or via email at kristenm@journaltribune.com.
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