Who is the Pope?
Coming from the Greek and Latin words for father, the world’s Catholics (estimated at 1.2 billion people) look upon the Pope as the head of the Church on earth. The Pope is considered the successor of St Peter, chosen by Jesus as the one to lead the continuation of his mission to bring to fulfilment the Kingdom of God. Pope Francis is our current and 266th Pope.
Pope Francis
While the Pope has full and direct power over the whole Church, this is a power that is exercised in a spirit of service, as the good shepherd who guides, nourishes and protects his sheep. The Pope is the defender of the Church, not its master. [Adapted from: Who is the Pope? Inform faith and life matters, vol 114]
The Pope has many responsibilities including presiding over religious celebrations, meeting with all of the Bishops, blessing pilgrims, visiting the poor and marginalised, clarifying issues of faith and belief, and travelling to foreign countries to meet with both religious and civil leaders.
On 22 February the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Chair of St Peter. This feast commemorates Christ’s choosing Peter to sit in his place as the servant-authority of the whole Church.
Petah Foran - Religious Studies Coordinator