Many people wonder how one man — the Pope — could represent Jesus Christ for the entire Church. It’s a profound question, because it touches the heart of what we believe about Christ’s ongoing presence in the world. The answer is not about power or prestige, but about service, faithfulness, and love — the very qualities of Jesus Himself.
When Jesus said to Peter, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church” (Matthew 16:18), He gave him a unique mission: to be the visible foundation of unity among believers. From that moment, Peter became the first shepherd after Christ — not replacing Him, but continuing His work of guiding, teaching, and caring for the flock. The Pope, as Peter’s successor, carries that same responsibility today.
The Pope represents Christ not by claiming to be divine, but by standing in Christ’s place as a servant and shepherd. He preaches the Gospel, strengthens the faith of believers, and protects the unity of the Church — all of which reflect Christ’s own mission. As Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, so the Pope is called to wash the feet of the world through humble service. His authority is not domination, but love — the kind that listens, forgives, and heals.
For us as Catholics, seeing the Pope reminds us that Christ has not left His Church orphaned. Through the Pope’s leadership, Christ continues to guide His people in truth and charity. Each Pope, with all his humanity, becomes a living sign that Jesus is still at work — teaching through the Church, loving through her ministers, and calling the world back to God.
May we pray for the Pope, that he may always reflect the heart of the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. In following his guidance, may we draw closer to Christ Himself, the true Head of the Church.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
