Humility - the keynote of ministry

The past month has been a busy time for church machinery in the Vatican and the Church of England. The cardinal-electors of the Roman Catholic Church very quickly elected their new leader, the Argentinian Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio. His election has broken new ground in many ways. He is the first non-European pope in 1300 years; the first Latin American pope; the first Jesuit pope and the first pope to adopt the name ‘Francis’, hence Pope Francis I. The choice of papal name is usually regarded as significant, pointing to the fundamental theme underlying the pontificate. Benedict XVI chose ‘Benedict’ after Saint Benedict, the patron saint of Europe, and founder of European monasticism. He looked to Benedict as a source of inspiration for his avowed task to re-evangelise a secular Europe.  In contrast, Pope Francis is drawing his principal inspiration from Saint Francis of Assisi, whose commitment to the poor in the growing cities of North Italy in the late 12^th century, has been reflected in his own work amongst the destitute in his native Argentina. His humility, simplicity and down-to-earth-ness have drawn widespread praise. He is also very positive towards Anglicans, taking a rather dim view of the ‘Ordinariate’ which his predecessor, Benedict XVI set up for disaffected Anglicans.

 

Humility was also the hallmark of the Archbishop of Canterbury’s enthronement ceremony in Canterbury Cathedral. In a novel development, Justin Welby had a child interrogate him liturgically the moment he was allowed across the threshold at the great West Door: Why are you here? Who has sent you? Like the Roman Catholic Church, we were reminded that the Anglican Communion too is global, with African dancers, bongo drums and a Punjabi hymn, featuring on the order of service. The principal theme of the Archbishop’s sermon was of being liberated to be courageous in the security of the knowledge of God’s unfathomable love for each and every one of us. “Do not fear” is the most repeated commandment in the Bible. There were also a number of other important ‘firsts’. Acting as crucifer was the first female Archbishop’s Chaplain, Dr Jo Bailey-Wells and the Archdeacon of Canterbury, the Venerable Sheila Watson, became the first female to enthrone an Archbishop of Canterbury. 

 

Both Pope Francis I and Archbishop Justin Welby seem to be setting a new tone for their leaderships. They are forsaking the ‘high-and-mighty’ styles of many of their predecessors and placing themselves firmly at the service of their constituencies. They are imitating Jesus who came not to be served but to serve. This takes us much closer to the heart of the Christian message which is ultimately about the power made perfect in weakness, rather than the power that ‘lords it’ over others. Both me have started their new ministries in the spirit of Easter.