Pope has set 'cracking pace' for reform, Cardinal Pell reports

June 27, 2013

Pope Francis has “set a cracking pace” in his quest for reform at the Vatican, reports Cardinal George Pell of Sydney, Australia.

Cardinal Pell—a member of the 8-cardinal commission appointed by the Pontiff to provide him with advice on reform measures—said that the Pope has been “working incessantly” during the first 100 days of his pontificate.

The Australian cardinal said that although public attention has focused on the calls for reform of the Roman Curia—“which incidentally I think to some significant extent will happen”—he himself has concentrated on practical reforms at the Vatican. He mentioned, for example, regular audits and efficiency studies.

While welcoming the fact that the leaks of confidential Vatican documents have stopped, Cardinal Pell said that the Pope would have to address the issues raised in a secret report by the three cardinals who were commissioned by Pope Benedict to study the leaks and trace their sources.

Cardinal Pell observed that the Pope’s decision to remain at the Vatican through the summer, rather than relaxing at Castel Gandolfo, is evidence of his determination to tackle his duties. The cardinal observed, however, that “he’s got to look after his health.” He said: “He’s obviously very tough and strong after years of work, but I think it’s in the interest of everybody that he doesn’t work too hard, or rather that he works hard in a way that he can cope with.”

 

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Further information:

• Pell: "The Pope does not want the Vatican to be seen as a renaissance court" (Vatican Insider)