Sunday Roundup

This week, the nation was transfixed by the radical humility of Pope Francis. In the midst of an ugly campaign season already marked by xenophobia, scapegoating, and cruelty, this very different Pope brought a very different message. While addressing a joint session of Congress, and again at the United Nations, he urged leaders to see the humanity of those affected by their actions, or lack of action. They should view refugees "as persons... trying to respond as best we can to their situation." He cited the Golden Rule, but expanded it for his Congressional audience, urging the politicians to "seek for others the same possibilities which we seek for ourselves." At the UN he called for "an examination of conscience," and asked that "real human beings take precedence over partisan interests." It was a master class in true leadership, and the awesome power of humility. Let's hope the Pope's spirit lingers long after he leaves.