Our faith is a living thing precisely because it walks hand-in-hand with doubt. If there was only certainty and no doubt, there would be no mystery. And therefore no need for faith. Let us pray that God will grant us a Pope who doubts. And let him grant us a Pope who sins and asks for forgiveness and who carries on. — The movie “Conclave”
This quote from the movie ‘Conclave’ offers a compelling insight into the role of doubt in faith, suggesting that its presence is essential for a living belief, fostering mystery and the very need for faith. The Cardinal even proposes the idea of a leader who doubts, who sins and seeks forgiveness, and yet carries on. This idea resonates with me as I considered my own experiences.
I don’t suggest we abandon the electoral college and elect a President by a Conclave. Nor do I believe that such electors would necessarily prioritize the most “worthy” candidate in the way the film portrays. Despite this, I’ve always believed we should vote for a candidate based on their merits, rather than simply voting against someone else (though Suzy calls me naive for thinking so).
However, the concept of uncertainty took on a different hue as I observe the reactions to our recent market crashes, the drumbeats of war, and other challenges facing our country. I admit to initially feeling the urge for certainty, to find definitive explanations. But through reflection and prayer, I realized that what I truly needed wasn’t certainty, but faith – faith in our democratic processes, faith in the resilience of our citizens, and most importantly, faith in the Almighty. My doubt was testing my faith, but also educating it, leading me to a deeper understanding of the strength found in trusting even when answers are unclear.
Just as the film ‘Conclave’ suggests that doubt can be a companion to a living faith, perhaps in these uncertain times, our focus should shift from demanding absolute certainty to cultivating a resilient faith – faith in our systems, our fellow citizens, and ultimately, in a higher power. In uncertain times, let us call on our faith, not our doubts.
Faith and ACTION!! Bless.
Thank you brother!