In Their Own Words

While the pope is the spiritual leader of Roman Catholics, he is also a political figure. No pope in recent history has been more so than John Paul II. His opposition to communism helped to bring its reign to an end in his native Poland. His strong stand in favor of human rights, his condemnation of Western consumerism, and his public pronouncements on social/moral issues such as abortion, sexual behavior, and the immorality of war all have had political implications. The Vatican maintains diplomatic relations with almost all of the countries of the world. Through these channels, and in public speeches and activities, the pope sets the agenda for Catholic relations with nations, cultures, and religions. Benedict XVI, John Paul's successor, helped to shape the policies of his mentor and continues his political legacy today. Neither John Paul nor Benedict have been shy about the church's right to make pronouncements, to attempt to influence public policy and politicians, and to challenge nations to act morally. However, their words have not always borne fruit. Sometimes ignored, sometimes resisted (even by Catholics), these popes have insisted on speaking forcefully whether anyone is listening or not. They have interpreted their sacred office as a bully pulpit no other religious leader commands. These collected readings illustrate this power and underscore the political character of the best-known religious figure in the world.