It was 80 years ago on December 17, 1936, that God gave a great gift to Mario Jose Bergoglio and Regina Maria Sivori, Italian immigrants in Buenos Aires, Argentina, a gift in a son born to them, whom they named Jorge.
On March 13, 2013, God gifted the Roman Catholic Church with a leader who took the name Pope Francis.
As we celebrate his 80th birthday, I indeed think about how much of a gift Pope Francis is to the Roman Catholic Church and the world. He offers some valuable perspectives on how to live out the Gospel message of salvation, in tangible actions that meet the real needs, just as Christ met needs while proclaiming the Kingdom of God.
He has an amazing touch in reaching out to people, like having breakfast with homeless people this morning to celebrate his birthday. I also keep thinking back to the ABC 20/20 TV program when he held town hall meetings with audiences in three US cities before his visit to East Coast cities, and the loving touch he offered to people in difficult situations.
He certainly set the tone for his papacy right away when he came out on the balcony at St. Peter's dressed simply, and asked for the prayers of the people, just as he did throughout the remarks he offered while visiting the United States in September 2015.
In many ways, while not widely recognized in all the media hype, his people-driven philosophy connects so well with upholding church teachings on the sanctity of life and the dignity of all people.
Certainly people think of him as some kind of supercelebrity who's so amazing. I think of him as someone who has a lot to offer, just like all Popes, and other leaders, do. I enjoy reading his quotes on various spiritual subjects, because they are filled with rich insight and wisdom.
I look forward to hearing more of that wisdom as he grows in age and God's grace day by day.
Happy Birthday to you Pope Francis, Your Holiness. And as you have requested, you remain in my prayers.
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