An unusual view of the Vatican
The writer Javier Cercas, recognized for his critical stance on the Church, has published an intriguing work entitled ‘The Loco de Dios in El Mundo’. In this book, the author explores the changes that Pope Francis has introduced, and emphasizing that it will not be easy for his detractors to reverse the reforms he has implemented.
Challenges for the future of the Church
Cercas stated that, despite the voices that argue that the world is moving away from the Pope’s ideas, the deep changes in the Catholic hierarchy are undeniable. He emphasized that most of the cardinals who will choose their successor have been named by Francesc, which indicates a new direction for the Church, beyond Europe.
A unique invitation
Cercas’s proposal for writing about the Vatican arrived unexpectedly during the Turin Book Hall, when a Vatican representative, Lorenzo Fazzini, invited him to accompany the pope on a trip to Mongolia. This opportunity allowed him to have direct access inside the Vatican and to have conversations with key church figures.
Reflections on clericalism
Cercas emphasized that the pope identifies clericalism and Constantinism as great obstacles for the Church. Francis, in his vision, challenge the idea that the clergy must have a higher position on the faithful, a conception that has led to severe abuse of power.
Literature and reflection
The author admits that he had to overcome his own prejudices to address his ‘novel without fiction’. However, he claims that he has not recovered his faith, rejecting the criticism accusing him of whitening the Church. Cercas emphasizes that the role of the writer is to understand, do not judge.
Humor as a tool of knowledge
In his work, Cercas incorporates humor as an essential instrument for understanding. It is surprising that Pope Francis also claims the importance of irony, a feature that connects him in an unexpected way with his own literary vision.
