Bridgefolk perspectives on Pope Francis
The question of whether Pope Francis will emphasize ecumenical dialogue and promote efforts for church unity has already been answered. It is no accident the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I, spiritual leader of Orthodox Christians, attended Francis’ inauguration mass in St. Peter’s Square. This marked a first since the Great (East-West) Schism that divided the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions in the 11th tentury,. Upon Francis’ election, Bartholomew I, who had friendly relations with John Paul II and Benedict XVI, commented confidently that the new Pope “will give a new impetus to the two Churches’ journey towards unity.”
Giving substance to that expectation, Francis held a special audience the day after his inaugural for delegations from various non-Catholic Christian churches and communities, at which Bartholomew I offered the opening address. In his prepared remarks, Francis recalled the significance of the Second Vatican Council, now marking its fiftieth anniversary, “for the progress of ecumenism.” He quoted John XXIII’s opening address to the Council: “The Catholic Church considers it her duty to work actively for the fulfillment of the great mystery of that unity for which Jesus Christ prayed”—ut unum sint [“that they may all be one,” John 17:21]. Francis then confirmed that “in continuity with my predecessors, it is my firm intention to pursue the path of ecumenical dialogue” and thanked the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, which has conducted dialogues with various ecclesial bodies (including Mennonite World Conference), for its work in service of the church.
Personally, I am encouraged by Francis’s election. His message and demeanor evidence the humble spirit of a disciple and the gentle heart of a pastor, which is precisely what the church needs—a shepherd who can lead “the people of God’s pasture” toward one another in love and toward Jesus Christ in faith and hope.
Darrin W. Snyder Belousek is executive director of Bridgefolk.