John Jeremiah Sullivan shares a poignant memory from his time with Pope Francis, illustrating the Pope's profound impact as a global figure of diplomacy and compassion.
Pope Francis: The Diplomat of Our Times
Pope Francis: The Diplomat of Our Times
Reflecting on the Legacy of Pope Francis Through Personal Encounters
April 26, 2025, 5:16 a.m. ET—In the wake of Pope Francis's passing, stories about his unique diplomatic style and personal encounters are making headlines. Among these is a remarkable recollection from journalist John Jeremiah Sullivan, who followed the Pope during an official interfaith outreach tour across Georgia and Azerbaijan nearly a decade ago.
During that trip, the scene was set in Azerbaijan, a predominantly Muslim nation where only a few Catholics reside. Sullivan paints a vivid picture of the Pope's visit amidst both welcoming gestures and protests from local Orthodox groups. Demonstrators vehemently denounced him, fixating on his inclusive statements regarding homosexuality—a fresh wound to entrenched religious tensions.
Sullivan recalls a moment of perfect poise as the Pope made his way to the Baku Cathedral. Accompanied by the Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, the Pope was greeted by military bands and a gust of wind that sent his zucchetta—the traditional white cap of the papacy—tumbling to the ground. While foreign reporters watched in anxious anticipation, one trumpet player stepped forward in an act of bravery and humility. Without hesitation, the musician picked up the zucchetta and placed it back on the Pope’s head, further transcending the rigid structures of diplomacy and showcasing a profound act of respect.
As the Pope continued on his path, seemingly unfazed, Sullivan noted the uniquely spontaneous and compassionate moment that unfolded before their eyes. It served as a powerful testament to the Pope's role not just as a religious leader but also as a unifier, embodying diplomacy in even the most challenging circumstances.
This small act of kindness amidst political tensions left an indelible mark on those present, highlighting why Pope Francis will always be remembered as a true diplomat of our times, bridging divides with grace and humility.
During that trip, the scene was set in Azerbaijan, a predominantly Muslim nation where only a few Catholics reside. Sullivan paints a vivid picture of the Pope's visit amidst both welcoming gestures and protests from local Orthodox groups. Demonstrators vehemently denounced him, fixating on his inclusive statements regarding homosexuality—a fresh wound to entrenched religious tensions.
Sullivan recalls a moment of perfect poise as the Pope made his way to the Baku Cathedral. Accompanied by the Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, the Pope was greeted by military bands and a gust of wind that sent his zucchetta—the traditional white cap of the papacy—tumbling to the ground. While foreign reporters watched in anxious anticipation, one trumpet player stepped forward in an act of bravery and humility. Without hesitation, the musician picked up the zucchetta and placed it back on the Pope’s head, further transcending the rigid structures of diplomacy and showcasing a profound act of respect.
As the Pope continued on his path, seemingly unfazed, Sullivan noted the uniquely spontaneous and compassionate moment that unfolded before their eyes. It served as a powerful testament to the Pope's role not just as a religious leader but also as a unifier, embodying diplomacy in even the most challenging circumstances.
This small act of kindness amidst political tensions left an indelible mark on those present, highlighting why Pope Francis will always be remembered as a true diplomat of our times, bridging divides with grace and humility.
