April 16, 2012
Today is the Holy Father's 85th birthday. I wish him not only many happy returns of the day but many happy years. He is an outstanding pontiff whose writings and talks have inspired millions and invited those with ears to hear to consider their faith more deeply. He has not shied away from diaolgue with the world - his conversation with Jurgen Habermas, published in book form - displays a critical mind at work in ways few of us could keep up, but he has never forgotten that for a Christian, as we discern the signs of the times, Christ remains the measure.