(no subject)

[sophiaserpentia]

The unconfirmed reports of the Pope's passing on Friday were incorrect and he passed away yesterday.

Since I have friends who are Christian, non-Christian, and ex-Christian, I have read a wide range of responses, from gleeful celebration to shrugging to deep mourning. My feelings about the Pope's passing are... nothing. Well, a little bit of something. But for the most part, I think of him as an old man, not connected to me, who lived a good long life and passed away in relative peace.

In some ways I might be inclined to view him as an enemy. After all, he did nothing to end the oppression of my people (gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgendered, and intersex) and promoted the perpetuation of that evil. Lack of access to birth control is a link in the chain of female oppression, and he actively promoted the perpetuation of that, too. He remained captive to doctrines which lead to pain and suffering.

OTOH he did take steps which no pope had previously taken to promote peace and interfaith understanding. And he was not without compassion.

I remain mixed in my feelings towards him.

Comments

[herbalgrrl.livejournal.com]

I save my vitriol for the institution-- one pope is as bad as another. They are all men who conscioously choose to lead a corrupt institution & perpetuate poverty , ignorance & intolerance.

mixed

[goldoyster.livejournal.com]

I feel much the same. Overall, he was a human that did his best, so good tidings. His was not an easy position, and he must have exhibited some special quality to be the one.

Wonder what's in store, now.

Re: mixed

[alobar.livejournal.com]

I do not feel he did his best, or even close to good. He was a vile pig.
http://www.livejournal.com/users/alobar/1160474.html

Re: mixed

[goldoyster.livejournal.com]

Perhaps he was not the best to everyone else, but I meant more in the sense of himself, to himself -- by his own measure. He lived a life that was extradordinary and chock full of difficulties I'm sure, as all of ours are, and he lived a long life. No matter what he did, or chose to do, he existed and had impact and that's all I mean to acknowledge.

Personally, I'm not a fan of the RC church at all.

Re: mixed

[alobar.livejournal.com]

Well yes, by that measure I agree. But could not president Bush or Adolph Hitler say the same thing?

Re: mixed

[goldoyster.livejournal.com]

Yes, the intention was really generic best tidings, "way to be human!".

[kumbunny.livejournal.com]

For me, when it came to the pope, I just don't get it. Seems like flock-like idolatry to me.

And for a group of males (who really need Carson to give them a fashion make-over) so h3ll-b3nt on being anti-gay and anti-fun and anti-sensual and anti-happy, they do a hell of a lot of kissles and huggles with each other, while in frocks!

The only thing about the pope that impressed me was learning he forgave his assassinator. He can forgive a guy wanting to wound his flesh with speeding metal but god forbid people wearing rubber on their doodles!

[alobar.livejournal.com]

I same my compassion for those abused by the catholic church. For the women not allowed legal accessss to birth control in Ireland. For the children beaten and abused by nuns for not being true believers. For the clergy, I have nothing but utter contempt.