Pope Francis' Visit to Philly

Most of the talk leading up to Francis' visit to Philly has been about all the traffic and parking problems—even affecting roads in Ambler and Ft. Washington—but soon we will see and hear Francis close up as he speaks and celebrates mass in Philly as part of the World Meeting of Families.

Pope Francis has quickly become a popular and, for some, a beloved figure in the religious landscape, especially for his advocacy for the poor. He has visited prisions, washed the feet of teenagers in juvinelle detention, and shared meals with the hungry and homeless. He has eschewed many of the trappings of the papal office, riding in a simple car and living in the simple Vatican apartments rather than the papal residence. His first papal encyclial called people to greater care for the environment. He has repeatedly warned about the dangers of war and greed. He recently relaxed rules around annulment and seems to have a more open stance toward those previously shuned by the church.

What is it about Francis that fascinates, inspires, or perhaps repels you? Does he cast the Catholic church, and the larger church in a new light? What is our responsiblity to the poor? What has he said or done on his visit to the U.S. that speaks to you?