Why we called the pope an ‘enigma’
-
- March
- 24
The headline on my article yesterday was:
For many, still an enigma
3 years into papacy, Benedict XVI remains mystery to Americans
I’ve received a few comments from readers who felt that the article was “negative” or “derogatory” to the pope. I don’t see it. But let me take a moment to explain what I wrote and why.
The main point: When talking to Catholics over the last few months, it became clear to me that many people don’t know what to make of Pope Benedict. It’s not that they’re critical of him. Or overly supportive.
Most people don’t have the time or interest to following papal happenings closely in the Catholic press—what the pope is writing or saying. And this pope is not nearly as prone to the grand gesture as was John Paul II. You have to pay attention to get a sense of what he is about.
So I set out to write an introduction to Benedict’s first three years as pope for Catholics—and others—who haven’t really paid attention since his election in April 2005. I talked to a lot of really smart people who observe the pope closely and asked them to explain Benedict’s pontificate, so far, in as basic terms as possible.
I asked them: What would you tell someone who now wants to figure out what this pope is about?
I don’t think that the clear consensus—that Benedict remains a mystery to most—is in any way derogatory or critical of the pope. It may take years (or longer) for his teachings to seep down. Or his visit to the U.S. may inspire many people to sit up and pay attention sooner. We’ll see.
One final point: Several people have suggested that it was not appropriate to run the article on Easter. I can certainly understand why someone who was focused yesterday on celebrating the Resurrection would feel that way. I really can. But we put out the Journal News/LoHud.com every day, even on Easter, and something has to go in the paper and on the Web.
Regardless, please check out our “pope page.”
This entry was posted
on Monday, March 24th, 2008 at 10:19 am by Gary Stern.
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The world of religion, we don't have to tell you, is vast. The purpose of this blog is for Stern to note, flag and comment on some of the more interesting religious developments on the scene – weighty and quirky, somber and laughable, far away and just down the road. He won't interpret Scripture, take sides in conflicts or judge anyone. But he will take advantage of the journalist's license to observe.
