Walking in another’s shoes can be hard enough; however, walking in red leather shoes can be even more difficult. Such footwear, part of the papal costume, has been worn by both Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. Pope Benedict XVI has found those shoes tough to fill.
Pope John Paul II was legendary. Born Karol Józef Wojtyla on May 18, 1920 in Wadowice, Poland, Pope John Paul II became one of the world’s most popular Popes. He was approachable and approached thousands throughout the world (extensively traveling, in fact, to over 100 countries) to share his messages. Pope John Paul II was never shy to use such messages to attack many controversial subjects (eg: war, dictatorship, abortion and contraception). This wonderful and remarkable man served as Pope for 26 years (as the second-longest pontiff in history). During his years, he was also recognized as one of Time Magazine’s Top 100 – a list of the most powerful and influential individuals of our time.
Upon Pope John Paul II’s death on April 2, 2005, the world stopped to remember this holy man who had touched so many during his lifetime. Rome became a swarming sea of people who came to pay respects. Deliberations regarding a successor began and the choice of Joseph Alois Ratzinger - a well-known Catholic theologian and author - was made. Ratzinger, born April 16, 1927 in Bavaria, Germany, presided over his predecessor’s funeral and became the world’s 265th Pope. In his reign, he has continued to defend traditional Catholic doctrine. Defending these values and teaching others about them is a key role of Popes whose daily duties also include naming saints, appointing bishops, creating dioceses and asserting all matters of Catholic faith.
But Ratzinger, as Pope Benedict XVI, has not been as conspicuously prominent as his predecessor. As Pope, one should lead by example. While Ratzinger may be doing this, he is doing this from the shadows. Without seeing evidence of Ratzinger’s work, it is impossible to gauge what he is capable of and if he is capable of holding the papal seat. Granted, with now having celebrated his 80th birthday, Ratzinger will be slowing down; however, he does not seem to be making the effort.
If this were a papal report card, I would have to grade Ratzinger’s performance as a “C-”. To improve on that mark, he must walk further, prouder and louder in his red shoes.
Article by Rick Lauber is a published freelance writer whose work has been featured in numerous newspapers and magazines. When not writing, Rick enjoys visiting his favourite second-hand CD stores, taking long walks and playing pool. rlauber@canada.com.
