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Special Report: The Martini Pope

By John Vennari

“Italy Hails Liberal Cardinal Martini, who wanted Catholic Church to Change.”That was the headline from the Boston Globe, September 4, 2012, on the death of Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini. The world’s press was of one voice eulogizing the former Archbishop of Milan, once seen as Papal contender.As is usually the case, the press loved Martini not for his attachment to the Catholic Faith of all time, but for his zest to challenge it.The media praised Martini as an “open-minded thinker,” one who “struck an original note in Church affairs.”[1]What were some of Martini’s radical ideas?In his last interview, which Martini asked to be published after his death, Martini said the Catholic Church is “200 years behind the times”.Martini further said, ”Our culture has grown old, our churches and our religious houses are big and empty, the bureaucratic apparatus of the Church grows, our rites and our dress are pompous.”Martini encouraged opening up reception of the Eucharist for the divorced and remarried Catholics, counseling against what he called “discrimination.”[2]In the book Night Conversation with Cardinal Martini published in 2010, Martini insisted, “You can’t make God a Catholic God. God is beyond all the barriers and borders we create.”[3]In the same book, speaking of dialogue with non-Catholics, Cardinal Martini said that once you talk frankly with members of various other religions, “You will even be glad that the other person is a Protestant or Muslim”.[4]Martini acknowledged the German and Austrian Bishops’ dissent from Humanae Vitae, as “pointing to a direction that we could promote today.”[5]Martini called for a more collegial and synodal approach to Church governance.[6]In 2007, “when the 16th Century Tridentine Mass was introduced as an option for Roman Catholic churches, Martini said he would refuse to celebrate it.”[7]Yet Pope Francis, on the first anniversary of the Cardinal’s death, publicly praised Martini as “a father for the whole Church”.Francis went on to call Martini a “prophetic” figure, and “a man of discernment and peace”[8]Likewise in his infamous interview with La Repubblica’s atheist Editor Eugenio Scalfari, Francis spoke of Cardinal Martini as “someone who is very dear to me and also to you.”[9]Optimistic commentators claim we must “read Francis through Benedict”. That may be true in part. It seems more accurate, however, to “read Francis through Martini,” since Francis seems to be following the progressive program outlined by the radical Italian Cardinal.Sandro Magister’s Chiesa identified Francis as the “Martini Pope,” and a “Dream Come Through” for the progressive wing in the post-Conciliar Church.[10]Along the same lines, Hans Küng had nothing but grand applause for Pope Francis’ latest document saying, “In his Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis ... speaks out clearly in favor of church reform ‘at all levels’. He specifically advocates structural reforms – namely, decentralization towards local dioceses and communities, reform of the papal office, upgrading the laity and against excessive clericalism, in favor of a more effective presence of women in the Church, above all in the decision-making bodies. And he comes out equally clearly in favor of ecumenism and inter-religious dialogue, especially with Judaism and Islam.” [11]All of these radical causes, and more, were championed by Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini.When we regard a number of Pope Francis’ words and actions, we cannot help but notice him following the trajectory of Cardinal Martini. It is no small matter that in the 2005 Conclave that elected Ratzinger to the papacy, Cardinal Bergolgio was not only the leading contender, but “the votes of Martini’s supporters, along with others, converged at the time precisely on Bergoglio. Eight years later, in March of 2013, it was again the ‘martiniani’ who backed the election of Bergoglio as pope. This time with success”.[12]Bergoglio has long been regarded as the “Martini candidate”, who would become the “Martini Pope”.  Thus National Catholic Reporter Editor Thomas C. Fox published the celebratory headline, “Cardinal Martini’s Dream: the Church of Francis”.[13]

Favorite Luxury destinations of The Martini Pope

Houston

Houston is home to some of the most luxurious and highly rated hotels in the country. The 5 star hotels in Houston are The Houstonian, The Lancaster Hotel, The St. Regis Houston, The Westin Houston, Memorial City, and The Houston Marriott West Loop by the Galleria. These hotels offer world-class service and amenities, and are perfect for business or leisure travelers.

Houston is home to many top-rated spas. If you're looking to relax and rejuvenate, a spa hotel is the perfect choice. Spa hotels offer luxurious accommodations, top-notch service, and world-class amenities. From facials and massages to yoga and meditation, there's something for everyone at a Houston spa hotel. Some of the city's most popular include the Westin Houston, the Houstonian, and the Omni Houston.

Orlando

If you're looking for a luxurious and pampering experience, then a 5 star hotels in Orlando is the perfect choice for you. From world-class restaurants to top-notch spas, Orlando's 5 star hotels have it all. Plus, with their prime locations in the heart of the city, you'll be right in the middle of all the action. So if you're looking to indulge in a little bit of luxury, be sure to check out one of Orlando's 5 star hotels.

Austin

5 Star Hotels In Austin are usually luxurious, and they offer some of the best customer service in the industry. Guests can enjoy features like room service, luxurious bedding, and high-quality amenities. Plus, most 5 star hotels in Austin offer great views of the city or the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a place to stay while on vacation or you need a place for a business conference, 5 star hotels in Austin are sure to please.

New Orleans

5 Star Hotels in New Orleans are known for their luxurious accommodations, and many of them are located in the heart of the city. Some of the most popular Spa Hotels In New Orleans include the Roosevelt, the Audubon Cottages, the Saint Charles, the W, and the Windsor Court. All of these hotels offer premium services and amenities, including room service, concierge services, spa treatments, and more. If you're looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay in New Orleans, be sure to check out one of the city's 5 star hotels.

San Diego

The luxurious 5 Star Hotels In San Diego can easily spoil you with their top-notch amenities and impeccable service. From plush spa treatments to state-of-the-art fitness centers, these hotels have it all. Plus, many of them are located in prime beachfront locations, so you can enjoy stunning ocean views while you relax. Whether you're in town for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, a 5 Star Hotel In San Diego is the perfect choice.

Nashville

5 Star Hotels In Nashville are the most luxurious and accommodating places to stay in the city. The rooms are spacious and come with all of the amenities that you could possibly need, from high-speed internet access to luxurious bath products. The hotel staff is super friendly and always willing to help, and the restaurants on site are some of the best in Nashville. If you're looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay in Nashville, be sure to check out one of the Nashville Spa Hotels.

San Antonio

5 Star Hotels In San Antonio are the perfect place to stay when visiting the city. They offer luxurious rooms and suites, complete with all the amenities you could need during your stay. Plus, the hotels are conveniently located in the heart of the city, so you'll have easy access to all the attractions and restaurants San Antonio has to offer.

Boutique Hotels San Antonio are a great place to stay if you want to feel like a Celebrity. The rooms are always beautifully decorated and they have all the amenities you could want. You can get a good night's sleep and then go explore all that the city has to offer.

Dallas

Boutique hotels in Dallas are a great option for those who are looking for a unique and luxurious hotel experience. These hotels offer a more intimate and personalized experience than larger chain hotels, and many of them have been designed with custom artwork and décor. They also often offer luxury amenities such as spas, rooftop lounges, and gourmet restaurants.

If you are looking for a luxurious place to stay while in Dallas, then one of the city's many fancy hotels is the perfect option for you. From the Ritz-Carlton to the Four Seasons, these establishments provide guests with top-of-the-line service and amenities. Plus, their convenient locations make it easy to explore all that Dallas has to offer.

Five Star Hotels In Dallas are known for their luxurious accommodations and top-notch customer service. Guests can enjoy features such as plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and high-speed internet access. Plus, the hotel staff is always happy to help with recommendations or anything else you may need during your stay. Whether you're in town for business or vacation, a Five Star Hotel In Dallas is sure to make your stay unforgettable.

Pittsburgh

Luxury Hotels Pittsburgh are the perfect place to stay when you want to enjoy all that the city has to offer. These hotels provide the best in service and amenities, and they are conveniently located close to all the major attractions. Whether you are in town for business or pleasure, a stay in a luxury hotel will make your visit a memorable one.

Spa hotels in Pittsburgh are becoming increasingly popular, likely due to the recent development of the city's hot tub scene. A number of hotels have installed hot tubs and saunas in their fitness centers, and guests are taking advantage of the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. The combination of the city's natural scenery and the new spa amenities is attracting tourists and business travelers alike, and the hotels are seeing significant increases in bookings.