Many of the things Pope Francis is doing and not doing in Cuba, like meeting with Fidel Castro but not Cuban dissidents, is because that is what popes do or not do.
As a priest, he has not given up hope and considers possible that even Fidel can be saved. And as a politician playing the long game in Cuba, he doesn't want to offend his hosts and compromise the opportunity he has to speak to all Cubans.
The apparent contradiction is frustrating but understandable. And who knows, maybe he will be vindicated on both counts.
But I hope Pope Francis also understands why, because of stories like this one and photos like the one above, there are many Cubans this week who feel betrayed.
Recent Comments