By KTSA News Staff
The truly global church--that's just what one local priest sees in the selection of Pope Francis by Catholic Cardinals at the Vatican.
Father Larry Christian told 550 KTSA News the selection of Francis--who is from the most catholic country on the most catholic continent in the world--speaks volumes.
"He's been noted as a reformer in the church in Argentina--and apaprently that is soemthing has been important to the cardinals--to have somebody that would bring a sesn e of reform" Father Christian said--adding he too was surprised by the speed in whcih the selection took place.
"These discussions that the cardinals had before going in to conclave probably helped define the issues, and then helped them to pare down very quickly the men they thought would have the qualifications to be Pope."
"These discussions that the cardinals had before going in to conclave probably helped define the issues, and then helped them to pare down very quickly the men they thought would have the qualifications to be Pope."
Meanwhile, Saint Mary's Univeristy Department of Theology Director Andrew Getz told 550 KTSA News the first Latin American Pope's selection is interesting because he is from a Jesuit order--and not an archdiocese.
" I think by picking a Jesuit they show both a recognition of a need for going outside of typical structures--as well as recognizing the importance of education" Getz said, adding Francis' name selection indicate a shift in the church's focus.
" I think by picking a Jesuit they show both a recognition of a need for going outside of typical structures--as well as recognizing the importance of education" Getz said, adding Francis' name selection indicate a shift in the church's focus.
"I think that's very indicitive it will change focus from.. doctrine...to one of being engaged in ministry."
