text: I don't often agree with Life of the Lay, but this time I have to agree. When did 'popularity' become a job-description for being the leader of the Roman Catholic Church worldwide? Heck,  even the word 'popular' does not properly describe what is expected of Popes these days.  Instead, it seems that 'successful' Popes must have 'rock star' qualities in regard to the size of the crowds they attract (invariably described as a million or more fawning / fainting individuals raising up their babies or doing their best to take a 'selfie' with the Pope. 
       But in fairness, the requirement for 'rock star' status didn't begin with Pope Francis -- it began with Pope John Paul II.  Yes, I will admit that at first it was exciting to have a Pope visiting in the Catholic people in their home countries. I, myself went down to Grant Park in Chicago in October 1979 to see JPII in person. But enough of Papal visits already -- what counts are the teachings, not how many autographs he can sign!