Francis has appointed over half of the College of Cardinals, aiming to create a global and inclusive Church, but the debate over whether to continue his path or revert to more rigid practices will define the future of Catholicism.
Pope Francis' Legacy: A Shift Toward Inclusivity in the Catholic Church
Pope Francis' Legacy: A Shift Toward Inclusivity in the Catholic Church
The future of the Catholic Church hangs in the balance as cardinals weigh Pope Francis' inclusive legacy against traditional dogma.
As Pope Francis prepares to pass the papal mantle, the choice ahead for the cardinals is pivotal: uphold his inclusive vision for the Catholic Church or revert to the strict, traditional doctrines of past popes. Known for his outreach and push for openness, Francis aimed to make the Church more welcoming, particularly towards marginalized groups. However, despite his efforts, attendance continued to dwindle in western nations while growing in the global South. Francis addressed pressing issues like sexual abuse and financial transparency, but his attempts at theological debates faced criticism, with some fearing a return to conservatism under a new successor. His significant reshaping of Church leadership, favoring voices of compassion and environmental advocacy, paints a complex and potentially contentious legacy for the cardinals to navigate.
