We can never underestimate the power of example, especially when it comes to living the Gospel in our daily lives. In the past two weeks, two high profile figures have spoken about either becoming Catholic or reentering the Catholic Church all because of Pope Francis.
Former Vice President Al Gore recently stated that he has been “startled with the clarity of the moral force” that Pope Francis embodies. Gore, who was raised a Southern Baptist, said that he could become a Catholic because of Francis. An avid environmentalist, Gore has no doubt been inspired by Francis’s concern about the environment, which has always been part of the Church’s social teaching.
Cuban President Raul Castro recently met with Pope Francis in Rome. Castro wanted to visit the Pope to personally thank him for being a mediator between Cuba and the United States. After his meeting with the Pontiff, Castro said that he was so impressed with Francis that he is considering reentering the Catholic Church. The Cuban government has been no friend of religious freedom, so we can only hope that Castro is sincere and that his sentiments will translate into greater freedom for the Cuban people.
Regardless of your feelings about Gore and Castro, it is edifying to know that Pope Francis continues to inspire Catholics and non-Catholics alike. We can all learn from Francis the importance of living the Gospel in our daily lives because we never know whom we will influence. Someone might even decide to become Catholic because of our example.
