What is not often discussed in conversations and writings about Pope Francis is the tremendous resistance he has faced since his taking office. It was an extraordinary resistance and hostility from the more conservative local church leaders not only in the United States and Europe but also in South America, Africa and Asia. Just think of how many bishops and priests you know have you ever heard quoting Pope Francis in their homilies or writings in the past several years. They would say: “Pope Francis is very popular”; “He is respected by all peoples around the world”. But even then you would not hear them quote a single line from him. You will see quotes from Pope Benedict and Pope John Paul II in their speeches and writings regularly. It is to be accepted that not everyone can understand and appreciate everyone.

Many "Catholic" channels used to sarcastically refer to Pope Francis as the Antichrist and even as the devil in their news bulletins. Whoever wrote a book criticizing the Pope, they would give free advertising through their channels and aquire readership for such books. The Pope once said with great pain that they were doing a disservice to their viewers.

We must remember that the previous popes have either banned or silenced those who openly criticized the church leadership.

Pope Francis has removed from office those who have committed sexual or financial crimes. He has also done the same to those who have politically abused their positions of power in the Church. However, it should be noted that he never took action on anyone's behalf for constantly criticizing him or calling him the devil. I have great respect for the virtue of tolerance and forbearance that he brought into the Church. May the wonderful grace of tolerance and forbearance continue to prevail in the Church, is my prayer today.