Popeianity

I really feel a sense of relief to know that the Pope will soon be on his way back to Vatican City. Watching the news last night left me angry, repulsed and disgusted. Four hundred thousand people turned up to see him at the racecourse yesterday (incidentally, what is the Catholic church's stance on gambling..), and crowd members interviewed were saying things like, "I would do anything for the Pope".

Three babies were brought up to the Popemobile, to be kissed by him. People were in raptures over this. Their child got chosen. What a special blessing. People quickly then rushed to have their photo taken alongside the kissed babies, as though the blessing might rub off on them too.

To be honest, the whole thing turned my stomach on every level. How can you call yourself Christian when you are worshipping a mere man? How can you possibly call this anything other than worship? Desperately these people are clinging to a mediator that they don't even need. If I see him I can be closer to God. If I get kissed by him, well, open the pearly gates right now.

Look at Jesus, and look at the Pope. One man, all powerful, made Himself nothing, made himself a servant to us. Always deflected the glory and honour onto His father. He went willingly to His death, so that we, who were His enemies, could be saved. The other stands above the crowds in finery, treated like a king, giving away blessings that are not his to give. Allowing the glory and honour to fall at his own feet. Leading millions of people away in the wrong direction.