The Pope Comes to America - My Take

 By Terry Orr

A breath of fresh air – a voice of reason – different perspective – and a mature adult talking to the “elected official’s and their childish behavior” were necessary and appreciated by many.

Sadly, there were many who took offense to his message – posted those comments with the related articles and posting. Each to there own – however, I hope they will take time to reflect on his words and reconsider their appraisal.

Quotes published that were spot on:

"Tragically, the rights of those who were here long before us were not always respected ... but it is difficult to judge the past by the criteria of the present."

"We must resolve now to live as nobly and as justly as possible, as we educated new generations not to turn their back on our 'neighbors' and everything around us."

"Our world is facing a refugee crisis of a magnitude not seen since the Second World War."

"Why are deadly weapons being sold to those who plan to inflict untold suffering on individuals and society? Sadly, the answer, as we all know, is simply for money: money that is drenched in blood, often-innocent blood. In the face of this shameful and culpable silence, it is our duty to confront the problem and to stop the arms trade."

“Each son or daughter of a given country has a mission, a personal and social responsibility,” “your own responsibility as members of Congress is to enable this country, by your legislative activity, to grow as a nation,” Francis started.

“You are the face of its people, their representatives. You are called to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good, for this is the chief aim of all politics.”

“A political society endures when it seeks, as a vocation, to satisfy common needs by stimulating the growth of all its members, especially those in situations of greater vulnerability or risk,” he said. “Legislative activity is always based on care for the people. To this you have been invited, called and convened by those who elected you.”

“Our response must instead be one of hope and healing, of peace and justice,” he told Congress, asking lawmakers to summon the courage to resolve our complex issues without such stridency.

“We must move forward together, as one, in a renewed spirit of fraternity and solidarity, cooperating generously for the common good.”