Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- bright / braɪt / (adj.) – intelligent or talented
Example:This bright student can become a great scientist one day.
- audience / ˈɔ di əns / (n.) – a formal meeting with an important person
Example:They were granted an audience with the king after several requests.
- pontiff / ˈpɒn tɪf / (n.) – the highest head of a church
Example:All our priests follow instructions from the pontiff.
- tower over (something/someone) / ˈtaʊ ər ˈoʊ vər / (idiom) – to be much taller than something/someone
Example:The Tokyo Skytree towers over every other building in the city.
- jeopardize / ˈdʒɛp ərˌdaɪz / (v.) – to put something in danger or harm
Example:Driving over the speed limit can jeopardize the lives of your passengers.
Article
Read the text below.
Pope Francis may have canceled his planned trip to Congo because of his bad knee, but he had a visit on June 21 from one of Congo’s brightest basketball stars who briefed him on his humanitarian efforts back home.
The Phoenix Suns’ Bismack Biyombo had a private audience with Francis at the Vatican hotel where the pontiff lives. The 6-foot-9 Biyombo towered over the Argentine pope, even as he stood for photos.
Francis, 85, has been using a wheelchair to get around after straining ligaments in his right knee. He had to postpone a planned July 2-7 visit to Congo and South Sudan because doctors said the trip would jeopardize his therapy.
Biyombo said the Congolese people were patient and knew he would eventually come.
“If he is not feeling good he can’t get on a plane,” Biyombo told The Associated Press in St. Peter’s Square after the audience. “I think if he wouldn’t go to Congo, I will bring the Congo to him,” he said, laughing.
The center, who has played 11 NBA seasons with the Suns, Charlotte Hornets, Orlando Magic and Toronto Raptors, briefed Francis on his foundation, which began by teaching Congolese children basketball, then providing them scholarships, refurbishing schools and hospitals, and building a hospital in honor of his late father.
“Just being able to be in the presence of the pope I think it’s a blessing,” he said. “I wish I could have brought my mum here, but she’s absolutely happy that I got to be able to do that and to get the pope’s blessing.”
This article was provided by The Associated Press.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
- Biyombo said that he thinks just being able to be in the presence of the pope is a blessing. What do you think this statement means? Discuss.
- Biyombo briefed Pope Francis on his foundation, which began by teaching Congolese children basketball, then providing them scholarships, among other things. If you were to start a charity organization, what would it do? Discuss.
Discussion B
- In what situations do you appreciate personal visits (ex. when you’re sick, when you’re sad)? Why? Discuss.
- Do you enjoy visiting people personally? Would you travel very far just to visit someone? Why or why not? Discuss.