In 2009 the new U.S. President Barack Obama had global “rock star” status. That status has passed to Pope Francis. When the two men meet later this month, their common cause will be on display. Openly affectionate for the Roman Catholic pope, Obama called him a “transformative leader,” whose influence has transcended the Catholic community. The two men have similar views on global warming, poverty and diplomacy with Iran and Cuba.
“Pope Francis has breathed new life into what I believe is the central mission of our faith: Catholic social doctrine,” said U.S. Vice President Biden. Francis “has become a moral rudder for the world on some of the most important issues of our time, from inequality to climate change,” he added.
The reunion between the two men will focus on areas of agreement such as economic opportunity, immigration and refugees, protection of religious minorities, and avoid areas of disagreement, such as abortion.
“It’s going to be a come-to-Jesus moment – no pun intended – for the many politicians who want to claim the mantle of Pope Francis,” said Michael Wear, a former White House official. But for Obama, the visit is a chance to strengthen his remaining goals with a sense of moral authority.
“In a way, Pope Francis has become a conscience for this age of the world. When President Obama came to office, he too had that aura for at least the first couple of years,” said Stephen Schneck, who runs the Catholic politics institute at Catholic University of America. “But Pope Francis’ message is moral and religious. He’s not going to be talking about legislation.”
Yet, the White House has praised Francis for involving himself in issues usually left to politicians, acknowledging that the president hears him in legislative terms.
While popes may not speak directly about specific legislation, when they speak to politicians they are in fact, speaking as a moral guide to legislation. And in spite of President Obama’s denial, the Vatican insists that in March of this year the two men discussed social issues including religious freedom, life and conscientious objection, which are buzzwords for abortion, birth control and parts of the Obamacare law.
In addition, the pope is coming to America to emphasize family issues in the face of Obama’s strong support for gay marriage and gay rights.
Though there are areas of disagreement, papal influence with the masses will make it difficult for President Obama to avoid his appeal to the legislative arena.
“All the world wondered…” Revelation 13:3
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