Local Theologian Sees Pope Francis' Visit to Cuba Conforming With Pontiff's Pastoral Views
By Mark Abrams
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Pope Francis' decision to stop over in Cuba ahead of his visit to the United States and Philadelphia at the end of September is consistent with the pontiff's outreach to the poor and suffering, according to a local college theologian who follows the papacy.
William Madges, a theology professor at St. Joseph's University, says he wasn't really surprised to hear of the pope's plans to visit Cuba before coming here. He says it is in line with Pope Francis' pastoral approach:
"That is, trying to address situations where he thinks that there is significant human suffering and feels that he can do something to actually ameliorate the situation."
And, Madges says, the pope may use the Cuba visit to expand on another message.
"It fits into this larger picture that he recently announced, that this coming year, that begins with the new season of Advent at the end of the calendar year, as being a 'Year of Mercy,' " Madges says.
The pope is due in Philadelphia on September 26th and 27th.