Pope Francis I

Today marks an historical moment in the history of the Catholic Church. Anytime a new Pope is elected, the church starts on a new path. The images swirl in every mind. What will he be like? Will he make any changes? How will he compare to others who preceded him (especially JP2).
  Of course, there are other ideas also flowing. He is no good for the church. He is too conservative. This will change nothing.
   It amazes me how some can look forward in awe realizing that we may not fully understand God's plan while other are ready to condemn this man before he even starts his papacy. If anyone thought that any of the cardinals elected would step in and suddenly make sweeping changes, they were kidding only themselves. History has proven that the church changes at its own pace. That may be too slow for many of us, but just the right pace for God.
  Let us look to some indicators. He is Francis I, in honor of St Francis of Assisi, whom God commissioned to rebuild the church. That says a great deal. And to look at the past does not mean he has not heard the cries of others. John Paul I was rather conservative, but was not so in his short papacy. Let us wait and judge on actions instead of speculation.
  I have to say that while it was a time filled with anticipation of a new pope, this was also a time of sadness and concern for me. As I looked at some of the comments on the Internet websites, on Facebook, and listened on the radio and to people around me, it is VERY apparent that there is a lot of bitterness and anger regarding much church policy. I hope and pray that these feelings are not keeping those who harbor them from Jesus. Certainly the church has room for change. It is an institution started by Jesus but run by human beings, with all their shortcomings. But do not lose sight of the true belief, that Jesus suffered, died and rose from the grave to give us eternal life and free us from sin.
  I will keep my belief in eternal life. And while I too have a desire for some things to change, I will hold them quietly in my heart, just as the Blessed Mother did as she watched her son crucified. She new a greater and more glorifying day lay ahead. Let us wait patient for that day as well.