Pope Francis, the first pontiff from the Americas, has captivated the world with his unique approach to leadership, characterized by humility and accessibility. He is perhaps best known for his laid back personal demeanor. Rather than adopt the typical regal accoutrements of the papacy, he opts to reside in the Santa Marta guesthouse at the Vatican, rejecting the Apostolic Palace entirely. This choice mirrored his commitment to a more approachable and relatable image, which endeared him to many within and beyond the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis is an international icon, and his events attract hundreds of thousands of participants. His influence extends far beyond that of his 1.4 billion followers. Indeed, as the spiritual head of the Catholic Church, he was often in the midst of some of the most significant policy issues facing the world. He was unafraid to address urgent socio-economic issues that resonated with millions, including non-Catholics, on a deep level. This larger message has certainly won over a lot of onlookers. In fact, Religious Studies Professor R. Andrew Chesnut goes so far as to compare him to a “rock star” in modern culture.
His time has not been without drama. His progressive views—especially his approach to LGBTQ issues—have torn the seams of opinion within the religious community. Catherine O’Donnell pointed out that he was “reviled in certain quarters” mainly because of these positions. That “palpable sense of loss” Jonathan Tan observed was the angst of many. They are deeply concerned about who will be the successor to maintain or advance Pope Francis’s forward-thinking leadership.
Under Francis’s leadership, the College of Cardinals has undergone a radical shift. This group provides the powerful prophetic and moral conscience for the papacy. Historically made up mostly of Italian and European clergy, it has today a more international representation. This change is very important. It furthers the church’s mission in a multicultural age — real inclusion — and it reflects the church’s reality as one of the world’s most diverse institutions. John McGreevy commented on this development, stating, “The head of the Catholic Church is the head of an institution that claims over 1 billion baptized members and is arguably the most multicultural and multilingual institution in the world.”
The papacy has for centuries been described as a monarchy without a dynasty — elected instead of inherited. This singular quality prevents dynasties and legacies from taking root in the body. For the first 100 years of that institution’s existence, though, it had unfettered power to do so. Massimo Faggioli explained this dynamic by emphasizing that “it has to be by election to avoid the creation of dynasties or legacies.”
Traditionally, the conclave that selects a new pope is shrouded in secrecy. This practice shields the conclave’s discussions from public or political pressure. This process has an almost ritualistic quality that engages the public’s imagination. It’s an impressive feat, particularly in the current age of informality that permeates much of daily life. Michele Dillon remarked on this phenomenon: “Particularly in today’s world, where there’s so much informality in everything we do, these timeworn, established rituals and ceremonial practices do capture the imagination.”
Culturally, the position of pope is both an example of spiritual leadership in the world and a major global institution. As Pope Francis departs, the world will be paying closer attention than ever to see how this remarkable transition plays out. The upcoming special conclave in March will elect his successor. It will define the future of an institution that has been the nation’s great stabilizing force and a catalyst for conflict since its inception.
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