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The Election of a New Pope

  • #Culture
  • #Religion
The Election of a New Pope
context
APR 30
Above: Pope Francis waves to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square during his Sunday Angelus blessing on World Youth Day on November 24, 2024, in Vatican City.  Image copyright: Vatican Media/Contributor/Vatican Pool/Getty Images News via Getty Images
context last updated MAY 17

The Spin

Narrative A

The conclave represented a critical moment for the Catholic Church to choose a leader who will continue Francis's legacy of mercy and inclusion. Francis dramatically reshaped the College of Cardinals to be less European and more representative of the global church, particularly elevating voices from the peripheries. Pope Leo XIV must navigate complex challenges including secularization, financial transparency, and maintaining the delicate balance between doctrine and pastoral sensitivity.

The Conversation

Narrative B

The conclave's strict adherence to tradition ensures the selection process remains free from modern political influences and external pressures. This ancient election system, with its emphasis on prayer and discernment, protects the sacred nature of papal succession and maintains the church's independence. Pope Leo XIV should prioritize doctrinal clarity and traditional values while addressing the church's ongoing challenges in an increasingly secular world.

America Magazine

Narrative C

Francis was a terrible pope who corrupted Catholic values to advance his political agenda. Nonetheless, the Catholic Church has survived for almost 2,000 years, even when bad people assumed the role of pope. By virtue of having a papal office and well-defined institutions, the church has been insulated from the endless schisms seen in other sects of Christianity. Indeed, the church will have to clean up Francis's mess and return to a more grounded understanding of Catholicism moving forward.

Crisis Magazine

Public Figures

Pope Francis


The Controversies


Status:Resolved
Who Will Be the Next Pope?
Controversy
+15
MAY 13MAY 13

Articles on this story

How a New Pope Is Chosen—and Who It Could Be
TimeAPR 22
How the papal conclave will choose a new pope after the death of Pope Francis
CBSAPR 22
May 8, 2025 Leo XIV elected as first American pope
CNNMAY 22