Weighing in on the New Pope

Weighing in on new pope

Q:

Some Protestant religious leaders have expressed concern over new Pope Benedict XVI's -- Joseph Ratzinger's -- conservatism. They cite examples including when Ratzinger, as the protector of the Catholic doctrine, said the Catholic Church was the only true church. Do you have concerns about the direction this pope will take during his tenure, and his more conservative stance?

A:

Give the man a break. What do we expect the Pope to expound? Of course he's going to uphold and defend Catholic doctrine; he's the head of the Roman Catholic Church. I think it shows a lot of character and courage on his part to proclaim beliefs that are not always popular, but certainly the foundation of his Faith.

Putting things in perspective (and rather simply to accommodate the confines of this column), Protestantism is a result of a protest against the Roman Catholic Church. The Protestant Reformation (16th century) was one of three major splits in the Church, first in 451 at Chalcedon then again in 1054.

Scripture teaches that the Church is the Body of Christ. The Creed of Nicea defines the Church as One, Holy, Universal and Apostolic. In theory, the Body cannot be split. In reality there exists a schism, although spiritually, it is still Holy, Sacred and One because all the factors are tied together through faith in Christ.

Rapprochement can only be achieved through two-way efforts on the part of all parties involved, i.e., Orthodox, Roman and Protestant communities. The saying, "It takes two to tango," might be refined for this discussion, "It takes two wings to fly with the angels." The spiritual and administrative unity of the Christian Church will be achieved when everyone extends a hand to one another in truth and love.

From all indications, Pope Benedict XVI has gotten off to a good start. His name selection indicates he's going to be a true pontiff - a bridge builder and working for peace and justice. Ours is not to judge (especially now), rather to pray that God give him and all Christians the strength to work for peace and unity in the world.

Fr. Vazken Movsesian
Armenian Church Youth Ministries