One. I actually managed to spend half a morning behind my computer, sans bratlings for the first time in goodness knows how long, and without any other interruptions (it was raining which is always good for keeping doorstep salesmen, and others of doubtful reputation at bay; people in Argentina generally believe that rain might cause them to dissolve). So my inbox is down to a mere 28 outstanding mails and there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Two. We have an Argentinean pope. It’s not just his Argentinean-ness that causes me to cheer, although since Latin America is the continent with the highest proportion of Catholics one might argue that it was high time. But by all accounts Bergoglio / Francis 1 seems like a darned good pick. If you have been kidnapped by aliens for the last 24 hours and missed all the analysis, then check this out from the Independent newspaper, not normally given to excessively pro-church content. Alternatively this endorsement by Anglican Bishop of Argentina Greg Venables has been quoted on various websites (including his own Facebook page!) and we can personally vouch for Greg as a diamond geezer;
The Bishop of Argentina and former primate of the Anglican Church of the Southern Cone, the Most Rev. Gregory Venables, has praised the election of Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio saying the Argentine Archbishop is a devout Christian and friend to Anglicans, who has stood in solidarity with the poor against government corruption and social engineering.
In a note released after the election of the new Pope, Francis I, on March 13 Bishop Venables wrote:
"Many are asking me what Jorge Bergoglio is really like. He is much more of a Christian, Christ centered and Spirit filled, than a mere churchman. He believes the Bible as it is written. I have been with him on many occasions and he always makes me sit next to him and invariably makes me take part and often do what he as Cardinal should have done. He is consistently humble and wise, outstandingly gifted yet a common man. He is no fool and speaks out very quietly yet clearly when necessary. He called me to have breakfast with him one morning and told me very clearly that the Ordinariate was quite unnecessary and that the church needs us as Anglicans. I consider this to be an inspired appointment not because he is a close and personal friend but because of who he is In Christ. Pray for him."
Be interesting to see what lies ahead for the Catholic church. I might even become one. That could make life interesting… Sadly ecumenism hasn’t yet made it to San Francisco, but given that there is a thriving movement in Cordoba, I’m hoping it’s only a matter of time.