While there was some speculation earlier, apparently an official Vatican statement confirms that he chose his name in honor of Francis of Assisi, not Francis Xavier (directly). He is well known for his solidarity with the poor and has been an outspoken as a human rights advocate as well as on hot-button moral issues such as abortion and same-sex marriage.
Besides setting huge precedents by being a Jesuit from the Western Hemisphere and using an original papal name, it is also notable that His Holiness bowed in silence before the Urbi et Orbi blessing and asked all present to pray for him. After only witnessing one papal election, I did not realize at first what an enormous departure this was from protocol but several of the older priests watching the television with me were stunned as well as pleased when we were invited to join him in prayer. It speaks volumes that he is willing to shake things up as well as be humble and deferential. I eagerly await his installment and finding out what other surprises are coming!
Of course, in my book, he couldn't have chosen a better name than Francis! (I was very happy to hear confirmation that it is, in fact, Francis of Assisi! I was sure of it from the first, but I understand that he clarified that immediately after announcing his choice of name. Not that Francis Xavier or Francis de Sales aren't great, but....you know I always return to "il poverello." ) You're right he has spoken volumes through his comportment and his (known) history. It seems much of the world is commenting...I've had comments from Armenians & the Armenian church, protestants from various traditions &, of course, Catholics of every stripe. I am profoundly grateful and very encouraged. You young people are, again, witnesses of a magnificent piece of history for the Church and for the world. Let us go forward with great gratitude and a pledge to pray for his safety and blessing. May he continue to be blessed, inspired and enabled to carry out the particular work God has set out for him to accomplish.
ReplyDeleteofficial word about his motto and coat of arms http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-francis-miserando-atque-eligendo
ReplyDeleteThanks!
DeleteI need to correct my translation. I translated it as passive future participles rather than gerunds, so it is more accurately "By having mercy and by choosing."
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