May it be a Peace-filled reign. He’s kind and gentle they tell us, and oh, may that be so. He’s taken, for the first time, the name of a saint who cared for both the people and the animals, and that is a blessing. He’s a Jesuit, so he has been taught to think broadly, deeply creatively. May he lead with Justice and Mercy all his days.

And yet, i think of the things he does not favor, and has spoken actively against: married priests, woman priests, gay marriage and homosexuality, liberation theology. In all of these things he lags behind many of the people’s understanding of God’s Love. May he be transformed by his office into a leader and healer of the Church and the world. Both are sorely in need.

Peace be with you, Francis I. Our prayers and hopes are with you.