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	Bishop Jarrell Reflects on Papal Visit to D.C. By Judy Bastien Daily Advertiser April 22, 2008 http://www.theadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080419/NEWS01/804190320/1002 Bishop Michael Jarrell describes the trip to Washington, D.C., for the visit of Pope Benedict XVI as "inspiring." Jarrell was among the U.S. Catholic bishops who met Wednesday with the pontiff during his first U.S. visit. "The most impressive thing was our Vespers service," Jarrell said, "praying with the Holy Father and the address he gave the bishops afterwards. He spoke of the past challenges, having to do with individualism and the isolation of people in today's society. It's a pastoral challenge we try to address." The people of Louisiana were in the pope's thoughts. "It was interesting that he took the time to acknowledge the victims of Hurricane Katrina and all who suffered from the storm," Jarrell said. "He also took the time to acknowledge the size and influence of the Catholic church in the United States. And of course, he has recognized before, the influence of the Catholic school system." Jarrell was impressed with the way the pope presented his message to the people of the United States. "The Holy Father is not the most dynamic person at age 81," Jarrell said, "but his message is thoughtful and inspiring." This pope is noted for being a brilliant scholar and his speeches reflect that fact. "For a thoughtful man like that, you really have to read and ponder his speeches," Jarrell said. "He doesn't speak in one-liners or sound bites." Benedict is sometimes compared to his charismatic predecessor, but Jarrell's impression of the pope differs from the image most often reported in the media. "One thing I read in the news that I disagree with is that people came to see John Paul II, but came to listen to Benedict. I think that's over-done. I think Benedict has his own charm and I think people enjoy being in his presence." One topic addressed by the pope that surprised Jarrell was the sex abuse scandals involving Catholic clergy. "My sense of that is the Holy Father has done the right thing and I was surprised that he returned to this theme and I think it shows the seriousness with which he takes this issue. "He wants to continue the policy of the American bishops with regard to healing and reconciliation," Jarrell said. Contact: jbastien@theadvertiser.com
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