The mood of conservative Catholics seems to be cautious optimism, and I share that mood. The fact that Leo XIV wore a mozzetta on his first appearance is promising. He doesn't seem to have a record of wading into controversies. Being an American might give him a more sympathetic approach to American Catholicism than has been current in the Vatican recently. (Remember "the ecumenism of hate"? I thought that was very unfair.)
Bishop Barron said in a recent interview that he would really appreciate a quiet pontificate. I think most of us can identify with that. I know I can.
As we all know, younger priests in the West are now much more likely to be orthodox. (And priests in the developing world were already more orthodox.) It might take a decade or two for that generation to reach senior roles in the Church. Perhaps a long pontificate from a relatively young and apparently moderate Pope is the best we could have hoped for.
Here's an interesting (and encouraging) reaction from Jimmy Akin, who's generally on the money. But Raymond Arroyo is rather more pessimistic.
In any case, God bless our new Pope, and may the Holy Spirit guide him!
Good analysis
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteThank you for this & the links, Maolsheachlann. I found his initial address and first homily pretty uplifting. I wonder if he might be quite like a gentler version of Francis, with more than a dash of Benedict. (But then, as a Leo, he may well have a roar as well.) It's too soon to judge, of course, but as you can see that hasn't stopped me trying! I think we are in safe hands...
ReplyDeleteI agree with all that, but more than anything, I think, was his BEARING and demeanour as he walked out onto the balcony, and indeed since. He seems a very serious, sober and dignified sort of figure-- and that's exactly what we need!
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