Venice carnival masks (February 2008. Photo by “Dagoos” [Wikimedia Commons /  Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.5 Generic license] *** As any conscious person who follows Catholic affairs at all, knows, there seems to be a constant uproar and “buzz” about this, that, or the other thing that the Holy Father said. One of my friends claimed that Pope Francis’ shortcomings were the cause, and asked my opinion about it. The following was my reply (expanded for this article): 1) I… Read more

Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger (the future Pope Benedict XVI) on 12 May 2001. Photograph by Manfredo Ferrari [Wikimedia Commons / Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license] ***** Four days ago, I produced a post entitled, “‘Confusing’ Pope Francis & Prudent Public Discussion.” In it, I summarized my position in the following words: Even if our objections are perfectly legitimate and worthy of attention and concern, it’s another question entirely, whether they ought to be aired in public, with the whole world watching. I… Read more

Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square, 12 May 2013. Photo by Edgar Jiménez [Wikimedia Commons /  Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license] ***   [someone asked me about this, and I answered; and add many more thoughts presently]   I think Pope Francis says confusing things sometimes (and too many times), yes. “Germanic” Pope Benedict-like or Aquinas-like articulation and concision is not his high suit. He has other gifts (ones also sorely needed in the Church). I also think that… Read more