As is often the case, it is not simply what we say but how we say it that communicates. Pope Francis is not a stylized orator. He is always and everywhere a simple preacher with words, with a message that everyone can understand. Whether in Italian, Spanish or English, he “speaks our language” because of the tone he takes. He is not a “culture warrior” speaking with a sword held high. Rather, he is a soft-spoken, frequently gently-animated preacher with something important to say. His manner is effective because he speaks from the heart, to the heart. That was clearly in evidence throughout his visit with us. No bombs thrown. No consternation shown. No sabre-rattling. The “way” he spoke with such gentleness and humility also has something powerful to teach, to say to all of us. Perhaps we should think about that the next time we are tempted to fire off a nasty email or letter.
I had the privilege of seeing the Holy Father at close range in Washington and in Philadelphia. I even shook his hand. I couldn’t help but witness the real love and joy his face radiated with every contact he made. He looked people in the eye. He made them feel important. He paused to comfort and bless people in wheel chairs; to kiss children lifted up to him by parents. He took the hands of people who never expected to come in contact with the Vicar of Christ. He embraced prisoners, immigrants, the homeless, the poor, as well as the wealthy and powerful, and did so as if there were no difference among them. His gestures were homilies and sermons in themselves, without any words needed.
The media has labeled Pope Francis “the people’s Pope,” and that certainly was the feeling evident in the crowds wherever he went. But every Pope belongs to the people as their teacher and shepherd. Every Pope, like each of us, has to be true to himself and use his personality to advance the Gospel and the Kingdom of God.
Pope Francis is an amazing, awesome man whose entire being is a sermon. In text, tone and gesture he teaches the mind and warms the heart. May he continue to be a Shepherd who knows and loves the sheep, who unites them in mercy and truth and who leads them home to the Church, where the Gospel of Christ transforms people into their truest, best selves.