Pope Francis Is Walking The Walk

Pope Francis has only occupied the Chair of St. Peter for four weeks, and he’s already taken the world captive by his life and ministry. What is it about the Supreme Pontiff that attracts so many people?

By now, the answer to this question is pretty obvious: The man walks the walk.

Carl Anderson, Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, noted that Pope Francis expresses a "unique solidarity with the poor and those in need." We’ve seen this in many of his actions so far, particularly in his washing the feet of young prisoners on Holy Thursday.

While these simple acts of charity are intended to help the least of our brothers and sisters, Pope Francis is also helping us to understand how it is we are called to live the life of Christ. He recognizes and accepts the love God has for him, and in sharing that love he bears good fruit, drawing the flock towards the Good News.

This is the New Evangelization. In sharing his personal love for Christ in Word, in Sacrament, and in others, Pope Francis reminds the faithful of what it is to be a Christian.

It is easy to sit back and admire Pope Francis, expressing gratitude for his pontificate. The bigger challenge is following him in our service to those in need. Let us pray for the grace to “walk the walk” like Pope Francis, so that we may help those in need while also drawing others to Christ.

St. Francis of Assisi, Pray for Us!