​The media like, even love, him. Is that a good thing?

​Among Pope Francis’ challenges for the new year is changing the media’s perception of him. Currently this perception is undoubtedly positive, as is proven by the many polls conducted by several media outlets that rank him among the most beloved and influential people in the world.

But it is also a perception that carries with it somewhat stereotyped images of Church and pope, as if the Church were an NGO or a corporation with the pope serving as a CEO or as a marketing expert hired to revitalize the Church’s disgraced image.​

Yes, yes, the devil can quote Scripture to his purpose, but is there a problem making friends with the mammon of iniquity? We can’t love it and God, that much we know. And Popes can be tempted, like the rest of us.