AmericanPapist Comments
Well it is too bad that Pope Benedict has chosen to snub Asia. His plane is absolutely stopping in Asia (probably Bangkok or Singapore). He should have visited the Philippines since it is possibly the most vibrant and healthy Catholic community in the world. The Charasmatic Renewal is HUGE there. Every Saturday night in Manila the El Shaddai Catholic renewal movement draws tens of thousands for there prayer rally and Mass. It's a huge deal. At its peak a few years back they drew hundreds of thousands every Saturday. The El Shaddai movement is a very interesting and quite a controversial lay movement. There are tons of other groups too. Well too bad the Pope does not want to have anything to do with Catholis in Asia or Africa. That is certainly how it appears. It was especially embarassing when during his first consistory to create cardinals he did not name even ONE African who could vote in conclave.
Dave,
I think you missed the point. The pope is going on a vacation prior to WYD. So I don't see his lack of a visit to Asia as snubbing them.
Matt - right. For the Pope to travel all the way to WYD is already a taxing effort on his part. The vacation isn't because he wants to have a getaway, it's because he's traveled enough now as Pontiff to know his limits and want to ensure he is fresh for the tasks he has already committed himself to.
There are some rumors of a future visit to China, where Benedict has been very active. He just takes his time and conserves his strength. I think that strategy is working so far.
I wonder if Papa likes swimming? Love the idea of him walking along the shore.
Flora and fauna? Cool! Maybe Papa will get to see some 'roos [kangaroos] and koalas up close and personal, like he did with the St. Bernard dogs a couple of years ago!
(I remember a photo of John Paul II holding a koala...that was sweet!)
Dave-I hope you aren't suggesting racism on the part of Pope BXVI. In his first consistory he chose a Filipino as one of the new cardinals. He also needs to be invited by the head of state or his/her rep b/4 officially visiting any country. As to the lack of African bishops being chosen as cardinals I can't see why he wouldn't choose any for future consistories. Just wait n see n pray always for him.
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