Pope Francis has made headlines around the globe for his willingness to tackle social justice issues—from challenging the Church's conservative stance on divorce and abortion to addressing poverty and economic inequality. But during his historic visit to the United States this week, will he speak on one of the biggest social justice issues facing the country: racial justice and the Black Lives Matter movement?
Reverends Emmett G. Price III and Irene Monroe joined Boston Public Radio to discuss their expectations for the Pope's visit.
"I think black America—and all of America—is looking for the shepherd to come and herd the sheep toward progress and toward productivity," said Price.
"There has to be some conversation about some of the injustice and inequities relative to people of color, specifically to black America," Price continued. "There has to be mention of some shape or form of the Black Lives Matter movement, however he chooses to do it."
Reverend Irene Monroe pointed out that the community of black Catholics—especially in the United States—is relatively small and, as such, often overlooked. But a generation of new leadership is seeking to draw on a tradition of African leaders in the church, like St. Augustine, to raise awareness.
"They're trying to use that tradition to bring the Pope's attention to: we, too, Catholics," Monroe said.
To hear more from Reverends Irene Monroe and Emmett G. Price III, tune in to All Revved Up on Boston Public Radio above.
