10 Years of Francis: Inviting us to be adult disciples
Fr. Jorge Serrano, SJ is a Columbian Jesuit who served at the Curia in Rome for more than a decade. His testimony is today’s personal reflection on Pope Francis’ papacy.
As I recall the ministry of my namesake, who wanted to be like the poor of Assisi, to serve the world and the Church, I find that the greatest ministry of Pope Francis is to be found NOT in his policy positions on the issues that shake humanity in the 21st century - the threat of nuclear war, famine, LGBTQ+ issues, migrants, the abuse of minors and the vulnerable, care of the plant, or any of the other issues that occupy the front pages of news and social media. It’s true that those policies have generated controversy and started vigorous conversations about issues that were previously whispered in the dark, but that is not what makes Pope Francis’ papacy important.
Francis’ great contribution to all humanity, not just to Catholics, is his invitation for us to act as adults. To leave behind the infantilism in which we have taken refuge. To be responsible for our own actions. To say “Enough!” to those imitation leaders who impose values on us and try to control all parts of our lives economically, politically and spiritually.
Pope Francis has focused his ministry on the call for every believer to enter into an intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus - to speak to Him “as a friend speaks to his friend.”
That is a real revolution.
10 Years of Francis: Reflections from his Jesuit Brothers
10 Years of Francis: He is my pope too
10 Years of Francis: Compassion and Tenderness
10 Years of Francis: Vocation Inspiration
10 Years of Francis: MAGIS
10 Years of Francis: “Padre Jorge”
Conversion. Atonement. Forgiveness. Election.
Related Posts:
Let us pray that the dignity and worth of women be recognized in every culture, and for an end to the discrimination they face in various parts of the world.
Let us pray that those who risk their lives for the Gospel in various parts of the world might imbue the Church with their courage and missionary drive.
Let us pray that the sick who are in the final stages of life, and their families, receive the necessary medical and human care and accompaniment.
Let us pray that the Spirit help us recognize the gift of different charisms within the Christian community, and to discover the richness of different ritual traditions in the heart of the Catholic Church.
Let us pray that people with disabilities may be at the center of attention in society, and that institutions offer inclusion programs that enhance their active participation.
Let us pray for the Pope, so that in the exercise of his mission, he may continue to accompany in the faith the flock entrusted to him by Jesus, always with the help of the Holy Spirit.
