Reflecting on the Pope’s Message

As I wrap up my thoughts on a recent conversation with Pope Leo in this column, I want to mention that I’ll be meeting fellow Protestants at the TPUSA Pastoral Summit next week in Dallas. It’s an interesting time, to say the least.

But let’s talk about this Pope.

He recently stated, “The communion between Christians and Muslims takes shape in our shared aspirations for dignity, love, justice, and peace, as children, in our rich diversity.” On the surface, it sounds uplifting.

But seriously, if what he just declared is what he calls an “apostolic journey,” then I might as well be a Speedo model. It feels a bit superficial.

Honestly, I’m on the lookout for a Pope who isn’t afraid to engage in serious theological debates with evangelicals like myself – someone willing to voice strong disagreements.

One has to wonder, why didn’t St. Peter, while facing execution, urge his executioners to reflect on these lofty aspirations? It seems a bit too convenient to ignore the context. The Romans, one could argue, were probably the real victims of that day.

A Catholic editor of mine pointed out that the Pope often says things that seem detached from Biblical, historical, or current realities. Maybe instead of harking back to Mr. Rogers, we should look at true apostolic journeys. Think about it: Peter went to Rome and faced crucifixion, while Andrew took the gospel to various regions before meeting his own end. The sacrifices of these figures paint a stark contrast to today’s conversations.

So, if what you seek is a genuine commitment, devoid of fluffy soundtracks akin to John Lennon’s “Imagine,” the reality might be harder to confront.

Comments about social justice often come off as the wishful thinking of those reluctant to face tough truths. It’s curious how one can stroll through a mosque in Algeria while Christians elsewhere face atrocities. Maybe it’s easier to frame violence as an economic or land issue rather than address uncomfortable theological realities.

Take, for example, the Pope’s vague remarks following the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. Instead of pinpointing the core issues, he chose to issue generalized condemnations of terrorism, as if all religions were equally culpable.

A quick search reveals that this pattern was noticeable even during his time as Robert Prevost. Perhaps this tendency is what led to his selection as Pope. The solutions to global conflicts seem to lean heavily on dialogue and getting together rather than confronting the obvious wrongs plaguing us—a struggle that extends beyond Catholicism. Think of figures like David French and Mike Pence.

The crux of the matter isn’t purely political.

I have theological disagreements with fellow evangelicals, but what I truly seek is a Pope who articulates those disagreements clearly. A leader who knows what the stakes are, and isn’t afraid to engage with them. Let’s be honest; a true leader needs to embody more than just gentility.

Indeed, as Christians, our mission might involve some uncomfortable alliances, yet the language we use must still honor divine principles, prioritizing kindness.

Interestingly, Pope Leo does touch on topics of great importance to evangelicals, like sin and salvation. Perhaps the most effective way to engage with this Pope isn’t through Protestant criticism, but rather fellow Catholics reminding him of the rich teachings of his own church that have shaped Western civilization profoundly.

So, are you ready to step up and embody the role of St. Peter’s Church, my friend? That’s the direction forward—not dismissing valuable teachings.

In the end, we hope for a Pope who is truly Catholic. That doesn’t feel like too much to ask.