Papal Poverty

If the devil wears Prada, perhaps it’s time for the Pope to wear Payless. Should priests live luxurious lifestyles?  William Doino Jr. and Pope Francis think not :

Francis’ sparse and austere lifestyle is well-known: as archbishop of Buenos Aires, he shunned limousines and chauffeurs, opting instead for public transportation. Rather than live in the bishop’s residence, he chose a modest apartment. After becoming cardinal, he continued his own grocery shopping, and even cooked his own meals.

Elevated to the Chair of St. Peter, many expected him to change habits, but Francis declined. He insisted on paying his own hotel bill, carrying his luggage, and living in a Vatican guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace.

Had he left it at that, many would have noted the new pope’s frugal lifestyle, and commended his humility. But Francis has done something more—he challenged others to live more modestly themselves.

Read the rest of Doino’s  On the Square piece  here .