by Thomas G. Plante, The Huffington Post
Time Magazine‘s pick of Pope Francis as “Person of the Year” came as no shock to those paying attention to the way the pontiff connects with the masses and inspires people of any faith to focus on what’s important.
The pope chose his name from the famous saint from Assisi, who renounced material wealth — a message that resonates with many especially during the holidays. There is little doubt that he sees this season as a time to help those who struggle, and to seek deeper relationships with loved ones and strangers. He said as much during his time as cardinal in Argentina, and he has repeated these typical Jesuit themes throughout his first six months as pope.
He delights in meeting children as well as the disabled. He picks up the phone and cold-calls people just to say hello or to tell them to hang in there. He drives a beat-up old car. His remark about gays, “Who am I to judge?” was remarkable. And one of the things I like most about him is that he doesn’t seem to take himself too seriously and appears very humble.
What a wonderful role model. He can inspire us to plan a Pope Francis-style Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or other holiday. Regardless of one’s religious beliefs or traditions, following a Jesuit- or Pope Francis-inspired approach at this time of year not only would be a way to make a difference in the lives of others but would result in happier holidays and less depression afterward. I guarantee it…
Reblogged this on Felician Sisters CSSF and commented:
Pope Francis has given us many examples of how to be Christ for other, some are asking when will we see changes in the Church … answer is simple, when we, the Church, follow the example of Pope Francis. We are the Church … the following is reblogged from Pax Christi USA.
Reblogged this on Grant Us Peace and commented:
I’ve been busy cleaning, cooking, decorating & everything else I usually do to get ready for Christmas. I don’t do much shopping; mostly shopping for supplies to make my gifts, so, I haven’t given much time to blogging. Today I saw this post from Pax Christi & had to re-blog it. It is a good article, but it goes to the heart of why I make gifts & focus more on the people & food that make holidays memorable. Presence, not presents! This may be cliche, but for those of us who are so tired & disgusted with the commercialization of this Holy Day, being present to each other is what we need more of. I think this is what we are nostalgic for.
My prayer this year is for us all to find ways to be more present to those we love, those in need, and to ourselves.
Peace & joy be with you!
~~~maria~~~