Sisters and Brothers All

Pope Francis went to the home town of his namesake Saint Francis of Assisi yesterday to sign a new encyclical, or authoritative papal statement, into being. The title is Fratelli
Tutti which translates as "Brothers all" and immediately it is controversial because the title exclusive. The irony is that it's a document which upholds inclusivity and social friendship. 

According to Vatican News it is meant for all brothers and sisters and offers this explanation: 

 We are waiting to know the contents of the encyclical, which the Successor of Peter addresses to the whole of humanity and which he will sign on 3 October at the Saint’s tomb. There have been some good discussions about the title and its meaning. Since it is a direct quotation from St Francis (taken from the Admonitions, 6, 1: FF 155), the Pope has obviously not changed it. But the formulation of the title in no way intends to exclude women, that is, more than half of the human race.

I just don't get why the Vatican didn't take greater care with the name but the Roman Catholic church isn't exactly known for breaking down the barriers presented by patriarchy. Just the same. I'll try not to judge this book by its cover because Pope Francis may offer some important insights about the ways in which we emerge from the pandemic, God willing that we do. 

For Francis, Christian authenticity is attention to people in need, and sees that the pandemic has further exposed the disparities created by poverty. He hopes that humanity will choose to address social injustices and environmental destruction. I can say "Amen!" to this and I'll do my best to keep an open mind. 

The encyclical can now be read online or downloaded for print.