There are more than a few people who are not going to get excited no matter who won in the recently completed mid-term elections.  There is a belief that it is highly unlikely that there will be much difference in the way things are done (at least in Washington) because of structural deficiencies that are hard to fix.  Unfortunately, some would argue that the same is true in the Church.

Since Pope Francis became the visible head of the Catholic Church, there are some who have taken certain statements he has made and concluded that "big changes," at least in a few areas, are coming under his leadership.  To those who say such a thing, I would reply, "Don't hold your breath."

The Pope has shown a Christ-like demeanor in many ways, including a desire to reach out to those who have felt unwelcomed in the practice of their Catholic faith.  I believe that the Pope is challenging us as individuals and as a community of believers, to see what we can do to make all people feel welcome and loved by us in the name of the Supreme Lover, Jesus Christ.

May we all join the Pope in this and other endeavors, and show to others that our Church is structurally sound in all ways, because it is guided by the unfailing presence and power of the Holy Spirit.