Over the past two-and-a-half weeks, I have been captivated by the solemn grandeur on display as the Catholic Church commemorated and buried its beloved Pope Francis. The subsequent period of discernment and the election of his replacement have been equally riveting—with its timeless ritual, drama and (yes) theatre.
As a practicing and devoted Roman Catholic, I was highly interested in (and engaged with) the unfolding process and its outcome. Like most Catholics, I hold personal convictions and preferences of how I'd like my Church to journey-on. (Grazie, Francesco!) I also realize that this 2,000 year old institution does not make many sudden jumps—or move very quickly. In this regard, it's good that (in most things) I usually support Evolution, not Revolution.
This afternoon, the white smoke appeared at 6:08 pm Roman Time. Immediately, my phone began convulsing with texts, directing me to flip-on the television. Like billions around the world, I spent the next 67 minutes on tenterhooks—wondering, speculating, hoping and worrying. It was one of those rare moments in a lifetime when the world almost comes to a standstill.
"An American? Yikes! What will this mean?"
As the opinions and observations have trickled-in, I have become cautiously optimistic. I pray that joyful optimism will soon follow.
Of one thing I am jubilant: Robert Prevost has taken the name LEO! This is a clear homage to the papacy of Leo XIII—the Turn-of-the-Century pope who developed the concept of modern Catholic Social Teaching. Additionally, one "Brother Leo" was the closest friend, assistant and constant companion of Saint Francis of Assisi. Brother Leo is buried in the lower church of the Basilica of Saint Francis, close-by the tomb of his beloved friend, Saint Francis.
Naturally, I have a fondness for all things LEO. And this website offers many examples of handsome lions. For the next fourteen days—in honor of Pope LEO XIV—we will be sharing some of these handsome lions. I'll also be praying that LEO will be a force for good—in the church and throughout the world.
Shown above, a handsome recumbent lion sculpture. It was made of cast spelter (white metal), probably in Austria or Germany. It was also nicely hand-painted, in a process called "cold painting," which means that the paint was applied after the sculpture had been cast, cleaned-up and cooled. Click on the photo above to learn more about this handsome feline.
More handsome LEOs tomorrow and in the days to come.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.