Card. Tagle: Pope just being himself

(Vatican Radio) In the first few days of his pontificate, Pope Francis has stolen the hearts of scores of people with his simplicity, profound Gospel messages, and gestures of openness towards others. But Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of Manila says the new leader of the universal Catholic Church is just being himself.

“The Petrine Ministry really gives you a new identity and a new way of facing things, but the person remains,” said Cardinal Tagle in an interview with Vatican Radio. “I was not surprised at all that he has been projecting this image of simplicity, of being down-to-earth, of meeting people. That’s how he is.”

In the 12-minute interview, the cardinal recalled last Sunday’s mass at Sant’Anna church in Vatican City, when Pope Francis greeted all of his parishioners personally, as well as numerous passers-by.

“As a bishop, you want people to come to greet you,” Cardinal Tagle said, trying to explain the Pope’s decision to step out of protocol. “You’re not concerned about security. That’s the farthest thing (from) your mind.”

“Seeing those images coming from Pope Francis, that strikes a chord in my heart and I say, I understand this man and this man will understand us, simple pastors,” he stated.

In the interview, Cardinal Tagle also spoke of his experience of the conclave and the impact of the media in the process.

Listen to Robin Gomes’ full-length interview with Cardinal Tagle: