In the wake of the wake of John Paul II there are various critiques of his papacy, many highly complimentary, some dyspeptic and some calling him a failure. It is the failure theme that I find most interesting because it goes to the heart of what John Paul accomplished, or didn't, as the head of the Catholic Church. But watching his funeral, I was struck by the panoply of races and creeds attendant. Maybe it is true that as a salesman for Catholicism he has, as Bill Clinton ironically posited, a mixed legacy. I can then be also said that as a larger symbol has was ecstatically successful.
It is possible that as he presided over a shrinking Church he lead a more universal movement. Maybe he has transcended the mere Church. I have no right to offer an opinion, of course, but can it be that this late Pope cared more that people heard his message than attended his masses? He was the first modern Pope in many ways, using the media to spread his influence.
We have seen the largest viewed Catholic mass in history. I don't expect to see Catholic churches swell with attendence, but more people are thinking about spirit lately. That's not such a bad thing.
Shrinking Church? Check your stats. Sure, the number of practicing Catholics in Europe is shrinking. But in North America, South America, and Africa the number is rising and rising fast.
Posted by: Dave Schuler | April 08, 2005 at 09:48 AM
great page...im sure i'll come back...best regards
Posted by: | May 04, 2005 at 07:37 PM