The “Francis Effect” is what the media is calling Pope Francis’ influence over the people of America, but no one expected United States House Speaker John Boehner to be as affected by the power of the Pope’s humility as he so clearly has demonstrated by words and actions following his encounter with the Holy Father. In breaking news, we hear Mr.Boehner announce plans to resign in October from the position he has held in Congress since 2011- just one day after having met with Pope Francis. Whether or not you align with Mr. Boehner’s politics or decision to leave Congress, we can all agree that something happened during his private conversation with the Pope that moved him deeply.
“Last night I started thinking about this and this morning I woke up and I said my prayers — as I always do — and I decided today’s the day I’m going to do this. As simple as that,” Boehner.
Listen to Mr. Boehner as he emotionally describes his interaction with Pope Francis in this video.
He continued on as he quoted the Pope’s encouragement to follow the Golden Rule. By now, it should come as no surprise that Mr.Boehner closed the announcement of his resignation by reading the prayer of St. Francis.
Let us all embrace the leadership style modeled by Pope Francis. Many of us involved in apostolate fail to ask others for the prayers that we so desperately need, but through this powerful example we see that in doing so our Holy Father has been a witness of humility in ways unimaginable. Have the courage to ask someone to pray for you today so that we will all join in the blessings that come from the “Francis Effect”.
The Prayer of Saint Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; Where there is sadness, joy.
O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek To be consoled as to console,
To be understood as to understand, To be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; It is in dying to self that we are born to eternal life.
