How to really measure the ‘Pope Francis Effect’

With just a few days left before his 1st full year in office, it is safe to say that Pope Francis has enjoyed nearly unprecedented popularity since his election last year..

In December 2013, Time Magazine named Pope Francis its Person of the Year, lauding him as the people’s Pope. In another Papal first, Pope Francis made the cover of Rolling Stone in January 2014. The magazine praised his “obvious humility” and “empathy.” He has eschewed fancy cars, choosing instead to drive a white Renault 4L, while encouraging his priests and bishops to do the same.

But beyond that, there are more ways by which to measuure the Pope’s effect and his influence on his flock worldwide…..

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Catholics and atheists alike — and it’s easy to find people eager to share how one man, in just one year, has changed their lives.

There’s the gay man who finally feels welcome in his church.

The woman who weeps when headlines deliver good news at last.

The former priest who no longer clenches his fist during Mass.

The Latinos who waited forever for a Pope who speaks their language.

“I’m telling you, brother, if you focus on the numbers, you’re missing the story,” says the Rev. John Unni, a Boston pastor with an accent as thick as clam chowda.

“There’s an energy, a feeling, a spirit here. It’s like a healing balm.”

Read full story: HERE -CNN Belief Blog

QUESTION…

In what way has Pope Francis influenced or impacted your life since being in office March 2013?

photo source: wikipedia