Many Christians entirely miss the political and cultural influence of the Vatican, even when it’s reported publicly, even when it’s held up right in front of their faces.
Consider how many influential Americans the pope has met with just recently.
- Joe Biden met privately with Pope Francis on June 14th.
- On the same day, Francis met with “more than 100 comedians,” including Whoopie Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Chris Rock, Stephen Colbert, and Conan O’Brien.
- In May of this year, New York City Mayor Eric Adams met with the Pope.
- In May 2024, New York Governor Kathy Hochul met with the Pope while attending a client change conference. The New York Post reports that Francis “presented her with a rosary.”
- Jesuit-educated California Governor Gavin Newsom met with Pope Francis in May 2024. According to this article in Politico, “When the pope calls, Newsom answers.”
Note well that the papal audiences described above are just with Americans and held over the past month. If you follow the news at all, you’ll know that these are not just ordinary Americans but individuals at the very top of the political and cultural pyramid.
In recent days, the Pope has also addressed the G7 and met with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Lux Lucet 