They have a pope, another papa … again.
He calls himself Leo. That’s an interesting name for an American pope, but the choice shouldn’t come as a surprise. After all, the last pope named Leo complained about “Americanism” to Cardinal Gibbons, archbishop of Baltimore.
Granted, Leo was critical of the ideals of the Age of Enlightenment that denigrated the influence of the state-mandated church that ruled western society for so long. But all that matters in today’s context is the word “Americanism” itself and the historical fact that a pope named Leo didn’t like it.
Only soundbites, labels are necessary
It’s not as if the masses are going to read Testem Benevolentiae Nostrae (Concerning New Opinions, Virtue, Nature and Grace, with Regard to Americanism) to see what Leo XIII exactly meant by “Americanism”. Just toss around the idea that Leo XIII didn’t like it. That should soften the new pope’s image around the world despite the fact that he is an American.
In other words, the details aren’t that important. Buzz words are.
Fly on the wall at the UN
But I can only imagine the talk at the UN or amongst EU members and European heads of state. This American now finds himself in a very unique situation. He is sitting on one of the few European thrones remaining. How would Europeans feel about that?
In all honesty, I can’t wrap my head around this one. What were the cardinals thinking? Now they must do damage control around the globe. Vatican diplomats will be working overtime this week.
Whatever’s politically necessary
But one thing is certain. If this American Leo wants to sit comfortably on his new European throne, he must be critical of Washington, especially this administration, repeatedly.
And I mean repeatedly.