Pope Francis passed away at 88, ending a papacy that shook the Catholic world. His focus on mercy and social justice won global praise but left deep divides. Conservatives say he strayed from tradition, pushing radical changes that confused believers.
The first Latin American pope called himself a sinner saved by God’s mercy. He welcomed migrants, criticized capitalism, and scolded climate change skeptics. While liberals cheered his “field hospital” church for the poor, traditionalists accused him of watering down sacred teachings.
Francis clashed with conservatives over Communion for divorced Catholics and restrictions on Latin Mass. Critics say he sidelined doctrine to chase cultural trends. His push for “synodality” — letting laypeople help govern the Church — sparked fears of weakening papal authority.
He ruled through sudden decrees more than any pope in history. Bishops who defended marriage or opposed gay blessings found themselves silenced or demoted. This top-down style contradicted his talk of decentralization, frustrating both left and right.
The Church now faces a crisis of identity. Mass attendance dropped in Europe as Francis emphasized social activism over spiritual discipline. African Catholics grew stronger but felt ignored despite their booming numbers.
Unlike popes John Paul II and Benedict, Francis rarely condemned abortion or gender ideology forcefully. Conservatives say this ambiguity emboldened enemies of life and family. His meetings with socialist leaders raised eyebrows among freedom-loving Americans.
As the Church mourns, faithful Catholics must fight to restore tradition. The next pope should recommit to timeless truths, not worldly fads. Francis’ compassion mattered, but the Church needs bold leaders who won’t compromise with modern madness.
Pray for his soul, but pray harder for a return to orthodoxy. The future of Catholicism depends on rejecting division and standing firm against the left’s relentless attacks on faith.
