St. John XXIII

Today Catholics celebrate for the first time the feast of St. John XXIII. This pope, who called the Second Vatican Council, was much loved, but there were certainly those who were not happy with the many changes that began during his years as pontiff. At any rate, Pope Francis canonized him in April.

There are many wonderful stories about John and things he said. My favorite is about a time when he was showing someone (perhaps a new ambassador) around the Vatican. The guest, trying to make polite and harmless conversation, asked how many people worked in the Vatican.

"About half," Pope John replied without a pause.

One may be forgiven to think he was being either kind or optimistic.