Power of the Papacy

As I watched the coverage of Pope Francis’ visit to the United States, I was overtaken by the realization of how fortunate (and proud) we are as Catholics to be able to witness the true supremacy of the papacy. 

Pope Francis was chosen as 1 of 115; Pope Benedict was 1 of 117; and St. Pope John Paul II was 1 of 111. Yet each one of them, in hisown way, was truly transformed into our Supreme Pastors, spiritual leaders and true Vicars of Christ. It takes nothing away from their service as cardinals, bishops or priests to witness them become such influential beings as popes.

To see other cardinals react, regard, respect and speak about this pope in a way that truly elevates the man and the role to such a reverent, spiritual and holy level was beyond confirmation to me that the position of pope is a direct line back to the Apostles, Peter and Christ himself. It is hard to imagine any better representative of that responsibility than Pope Francis. Resting my case on the fact that he tries his best to downplay his exceptionally special presence (to no avail) only further proves that the power of the Holy Spirit is truly at work when a person becomes the pope.

Pope Francis asks us all to pray for him. He can count on me.

Jim Salerno 

West Palm Beach, Fla.