Tim Townsend’s article on Monday touched on a topic close to my heart, that is: the experience of black members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. To read his story, Black Mormons straddle two worlds on 30th anniversary – click here.

I have to admit, Tim’s story, while balanced and refreshing, was also hard to read. Especially hard for me to read was a comment made by my friend, Latter-day Saint (Mormon) convert, Nekisha Rhodes who says she is “comfortable being uncomfortable” as she struggles to learn more about the heritage of her new-found faith, a heritage that includes a church policy, lifted 30 years ago, prohibiting black male members from the priesthood.

Nekisha sounds much like many African American Latter-day Saints when they candidly express their faith and experience in the church. Catherine Stokes, Latter-day Saint and former assistant director, Office of Health Care Regulation,…

I have a question.

And sometimes when you are writing, rather than speaking face to face about provocative topics, communication can get a little sticky. The tone can get lost. So first let me say that I ask this question with the utmost respect and with a genuine desire for a greater understanding. So here goes:

How do American Catholics feel connected to the Pope?

My lack of understanding is twofold. First, as a Jewish person, I don’t have a comparable public figure in my religion. There is no “head Rabbi”. And second, with the Pope residing across the ocean in Italy, how is this relationship (so to speak) nurtured?

So, if you feel inclined, enlighten me. Tell me how and why you maintain affection for the Pope. Or tell me why you don’t. And if you’re curious like me, I’d like to hear about that too.