The Pope and the President

President Obama will meet Pope Francis on March 27. The first African-American president will meet the first Latin American pope. Barack Obama and Jorge Bergoglio were outsiders, a new senator and an old Jesuit with, it appeared, little chance that they would lead the most powerful nation and religious institution on earth. Both were elected as reformers, committed to change in Washington and the Vatican. The president was Time’s person of the year and a Nobel Prize-winner, but that seems long ago. The pope is riding a wave of enthusiasm onto the cover of not only Time, but Rolling Stone as well.

Pope Francis is just entering his second year. President Obama is in his sixth year, and there is growing discussion about his successor. The pope has no term and benefits from contrasts, some unfair, with his predecessor. The president has been elected twice after long, grueling campaigns. The pope was elected in a quick, secret election with the only exit poll a puff of white smoke.

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