Last week, an extensive and candid interview with Pope Francis was published in America magazine. We gain new insight into the pope’s leadership style, personal style, and dreams for the future of the Church: “This church with which we should be thinking is the home of all, not a small chapel that can hold only a small group of selected people.” The interview has been a hot topic of conversation in both Catholic and secular media. Share the pope’s interview with young adults and talk about their reactions. NOTE: The entire interview is a long — and good — read. You might also share these reflections from Fr. Jim Martin, who zeros in on some key parts of the interview.
- What was your reaction to Pope Francis’ interview? What surprised you? What challenged you?
- Have you heard your friends who aren’t Catholic – or are not regular church goers – comment about the interview? What are they saying? How do their reactions make you feel about the Church?
- How do you think the pope’s interview might open up opportunities for dialogue or sharing your faith with others?
- What steps might your young adult group take in your local community to help make the Church the “home of all” that the pope wants it to be?