Highlights

 
Here are some quotes that stuck out to me when I was reading the Popes impromptu and no holds barred interview.  I will link it at the bottom so you can read it yourself.  Let me know what you think!
“…a single tree falling makes a sound, but a whole forest growing doesn’t.” What we do as a group really makes a difference.  But when there are people who are trying to undermine all of the goodness and the credibility, this is a good quote to remember.

Regarding how the Catholic Church has lost ground in Latin America recently to Pentecostal churches:  I’ll tell you something about the Charismatic Movement … at the end of the ’70s and in the ’80s, I wasn’t a big fan. I used to say they confused the holy liturgy with a school of samba. I was converted when I got to know them better and saw the good they do.The charismatic renewal movement isn’t just about winning back a few Pentecostals, but it serves the church and its renewal.”On being a Jesuit:
“The Jesuits have a vow to obey the pope, but if the pope is a Jesuit, maybe he should have a vow to obey the superior general … I feel like I’m still a Jesuit in terms of my spirituality, what I have in my heart. In three days, I’ll go to celebrate the feast of St. Ignatius. Also, I think like a Jesuit.”On how people love to remind us of our past mistakes:But one can sin and then convert, and the Lord both forgives and forgets. We don’t have the right to refuse to forget … it’s dangerous. The theology of sin is important. St. Peter committed one of the greatest sins, denying Christ, and yet they made him pope. Think about that.”

On gays:If they accept the Lord and have goodwill, who am I to judge them? They shouldn’t be marginalized. The tendency [to homosexuality] is not the problem … they’re our brothers.”

And this is what I love;  I love that he knows his limitations in knowing what God wants on issues that he doesn’t fully understand. He is open to conversion.  He understands God’s love and forgiveness and our need to be effective ambassadors of Christ so he has given us the building blocks to work from…our most important tools.  He has told us, be God-centered, care for the poor, follow the example of Jesus, pray, pray, pray.  Pray to Mary, our mother.  Do not be afraid.  Have courage.  Shake things up.  Reach out.  Look to the poor.  Pray!  His formula is simple.  Center yourself in Christ and the rest really will take care of itself. NCR Interview With Pope Francis