Pope Francis' Legacy: A Path of Inclusivity and Debate

Tue Nov 11 2025 06:59:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As the cardinals prepare to select Pope Francis' successor, his legacy of openness faces scrutiny and future direction remains uncertain.

The upcoming decision by the cardinals will determine if the Catholic Church will continue on a more inclusive path initiated by Pope Francis or revert to the traditionalism of past popes. Francis has brought attention to pressing issues within the church, including sexual abuse and financial transparency. His approach facilitated dialogue around contentious topics such as divorce, priesthood for married individuals, acceptance of same-sex relationships, and female roles in the church, captivating many liberal Catholics following decades of conservative leadership. However, criticism looms, alleging that he merely stirred debate which could dissolve with a less progressive successor, diluting church doctrines.

Francis' efforts contrasted sharply with his predecessors, particularly Pope John Paul II, whose tenure faced severe backlash for failing to address the church's abuse crisis. Through proactive reforms, Francis established space for dissenting ideas and advocated for greater interaction with Muslim communities, forming partnerships aimed at safeguarding persecuted Catholics.

Significantly, his influence extended to the ecclesiastical leadership, as he appointed a majority of the College of Cardinals and focused on uplifting marginalized voices by addressing climate change and social issues. Ultimately, the legacy he leaves will influence not just the church's internal fabric but its relationship with the broader world, as cardinals deliberate on which direction to guide the Catholic Church next.