GRACE IN THE EYE OF THE STORM
I have waited for a month for the memories to settle of the closing ceremonies for the YEAR OF THE PRIEST in the Vatican. I did not think I would be moved. Why? The world's chattering classes were calling for the Pope's head in the continuing sexual abuse crisis; I expected to see a demoralized clergy; the weight of bad news seemed to preclude anything joyful.
But I was wrong--thankfully so. Fifteen thousand priests from one hundred five countries came to pray and be together. I saw tears on the Pope's face at the Thursday Evening Prayer and Benediction as we surrounded him with applause and support. I witnessed happy, committed priests whose faces are firmly set against the prevailing winds, and I finally allowed myself to hope.
For me, the most important part was the Thursday evening service. Can you imagine St. Peter's square full of people, mostly priests, and absolutely silent as people prayed! Amazing!
And then, the Pope spoke "off the papal cuff" without notes when answering some questions from priests. There are other places to read what he said, but for me, his humble willingness to talk "down to earth" and compassionately with us spoke volumes of his own humility and his understanding of the difficulty priests face today. He was a father and a brother--there was no distance or aloofness. And for a moment, there in St. Peter's square, we were truly united in joy and confidence with our spiritual Holy Father. Very impressive and moving.
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