10/24/2023

My Dear Friend & POTUS, JRB,

            I am heading out to see the 5th graders today. We haven’t done math together for several weeks, so I am excited. I don’t have much time, so I’ll cut to the chase.

            I am curious to see who will receive the National Medal of Science & the National Medal of Technology & Innovation today. It seems to be a secret. I hope a woman is among the recipients.

            I am also curious about the Synod at the Vatican. It seems that they are arguing about “a “static” understanding & a “dynamic” understanding of tradition & the best way of “keeping the mystery of Christ.” I understand that the two Chinese Bishops returned home without completing the synod process. That’s too bad. I appreciated that the pope highlighted climate change by pointing out, “human greed has already inflicted deep wounds upon our planet & stripped millions of their dignity.” I am grateful that Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Yangon celebrated Mass for participants in the General Assembly highlighting, "Faith shines a light on the path through life's darkest and most tumultuous moments, allowing us to see God's grace penetrating the shadows." He brought attention to the suffering in Burma, noting, “"Homes have vanished, & churches have borne the brunt of cruelty, & the Way of the Cross is a painful reality.”

            I hope your meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia goes well today.

            BYBS,