Despite Francis' attempts to attract followers back to mass—known as the hoped-for "Francis effect"—attendance in many secularized Western regions has continued to decline, while it has increased in the global South. His efforts to confront the church's historical issues, including sexual abuse scandals and financial transparency, create a solid foundation but also set the stage for intense discussions about the Church's future.
Francis opened theological debates concerning significant issues like divorce, the presence of married priests, acceptance of same-sex unions, and women’s roles in the Church, sparking excitement among liberal Catholics after years of conservative leadership. However, some critics argue that Francis initiated a movement that could easily be halted by a more conservative successor, fearing a retraction of the changes he implemented.
Contrasting with the leadership styles of his predecessors, Popes Benedict XVI and John Paul II, Francis made attempts to reform the Church’s approach to dissent and open communication among leaders. He faced challenges in his relations with Islamic leaders but worked diligently to improve interfaith dialogue to safeguard Catholic communities in perilous conditions.
Ultimately, Francis reshaped the College of Cardinals and appointed thousands of new bishops, emphasizing the importance of social justice issues, adherence to the marginalized, and climate change advocacy. As the Church stands at the brink of a new papacy, the discussions among cardinals will dictate whether they continue down the path laid by Francis or revert to longstanding traditions.
Jason Horowitz serves as the Rome bureau chief for the Times, covering Italy, the Vatican, and Southern Europe.
Francis opened theological debates concerning significant issues like divorce, the presence of married priests, acceptance of same-sex unions, and women’s roles in the Church, sparking excitement among liberal Catholics after years of conservative leadership. However, some critics argue that Francis initiated a movement that could easily be halted by a more conservative successor, fearing a retraction of the changes he implemented.
Contrasting with the leadership styles of his predecessors, Popes Benedict XVI and John Paul II, Francis made attempts to reform the Church’s approach to dissent and open communication among leaders. He faced challenges in his relations with Islamic leaders but worked diligently to improve interfaith dialogue to safeguard Catholic communities in perilous conditions.
Ultimately, Francis reshaped the College of Cardinals and appointed thousands of new bishops, emphasizing the importance of social justice issues, adherence to the marginalized, and climate change advocacy. As the Church stands at the brink of a new papacy, the discussions among cardinals will dictate whether they continue down the path laid by Francis or revert to longstanding traditions.
Jason Horowitz serves as the Rome bureau chief for the Times, covering Italy, the Vatican, and Southern Europe.
