In the past yours truly has been (and still remains) critical of the representatives of the Body of Christ – not to mention highly critical of some of Christ’s more questionable lay followers. Perhaps, though, events of the last few years, mostly within the Papacy of Rome, give cause for hope. With the possible turn around by the Vatican on the issues of fighting AIDS, poverty and the income gap, or on the recognition of gay civil unions, there is a glimmer of hope rising in the Body of Christ.
Perhaps, as some critics maintain, these changes in perspective are merely the result of pressure to cave to ‘secularism’, but it doesn’t seem likely. What does seem likely is that both Popes (Benedict and Francis) recognize changes are necessary in the Church in order to more closely align the Church’s doctrine with both scripture and Her own rhetoric.
Once all one heard of the Church was from the Church’s critics, whether it is to condemn a pastor for a harsh sermon or (fairer) criticism against $75 million mega-Churches.
Today, though, there is hope for a reborn Body of Christ from places large and small. From the cathedrals of Vatican city to Churches gathering under bridges a new Church appears to be emerging, one who knows Her roots and Her true message.
On a personal note, my message to the leaders remains that of John 8:10-11.
And Then the Darkness Fell 
Pingback: Rest In Peace {reposted and edited} | And Then the Darkness Fell
Pingback: A Church that surprises | And Then the Darkness Fell