We have recently cautioned against being too enthusiastic about President Bush, and there are still plenty of reasons for caution. But he has also provided new reasons for enthusiasm.
His comments to Catholic leaders the day before dedicating the John Paul II cultural center were remarkable.
Here's what W. said (the full text is on page 15): “All of you are part of the humanizing mission which is part of the ‘great commission’ and the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center, which we will dedicate tomorrow, will bring this message to generations of Americans in this capital of our nation. The best way to honor Pope John Paul II, truly one of the great men, is to take his teaching seriously; is to listen to his words and put his words and teachings into action here in America. This is a challenge we must accept.”