Our institutions and the papal representatives present in the affected countries went into action immediately.

Indeed, papal diplomats not only knew about the plot against Hitler, but sought to mediate between the conspirators and the Allied Powers.

The heart of the matter is that Francis s actions have been in line with the revolution from above style of reform associated with Vatican II. In particular, none of the changes promoted by Francis envision a reduction in papal power.

Papal authority stands on shaky ground, especially in the comparatively secular West. Francis can attract attention by opining about social justice outside the church, but it is difficult for any pope to influence the habits and theological views of Catholics themselves, who think and act as they please.

The chief Jesuit confessor at the papal court used to be called the black pope, owing to his simple black cassock (if not his sinister intent). Now, for the first time, a Jesuit has become pope and has compounded the novelty by assuming the very un Jesuit name of Francis.

He chose his papal name, he explains in the text, because he considers St. Francis of Assisi to be the example par excellence of care for the vulnerable and of an integral ecology lived out joyfully and authentically. His namesake showed that concern for nature is inseparable from justice for the poor, social commitment, and peace within oneself.