The Catholic Church at a Crossroads: What Happens After Pope Francis?

Pope Francis’s death at 88 marks the end of his groundbreaking 12-year leadership that revolutionized the Catholic Church’s global image. The upcoming selection of a new pope brings an unprecedented situation. Most cardinals eligible to vote now come from outside Europe. This marks a dramatic change from earlier times, like the 1939 selection of Pius XII, when European cardinals made up 89% of voters.

The Catholic Church faces significant changes. Francis appointed 108 of the 135 cardinals who can vote for his successor. The Church still grapples with divisions between conservative and progressive groups, despite Francis’s work to unite them. Cardinals will meet 15-20 days after Francis’s death. Their choice comes amid worldwide wars, civil unrest, and deep social divisions. The Church’s next leader must tackle crucial issues like poverty, social justice, and climate change. The new pope’s relationship with the United States adds another layer of complexity to these challenges.

How Catholics Around the World Are Reacting

_{Image Source: Catholic Review}

Bells ring out on every continent as Catholics around the world mourn Pope Francis. The sound echoes from Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris to tiny parish churches in the Philippines. Catholic communities mark his passing with solemn rituals and quiet reflection. The Church has begun a nine-day mourning period called the “Novendiales.” Daily Masses honor Francis’s soul during this time ^[1].

1. Mourning and reflection in different regions

The Philippines stands out among Asian nations with its heartfelt expressions of grief. This country has the largest Roman Catholic population in the region. At St. Bartholomew Parish in Bulacan, a bell chimed 88 times to honor “the 88 fruitful years of our dear Pope Francis” ^[2]. Manila Archbishop Jose Advincula spoke for many Filipino Catholics when he said, “Pope Francis showed us what it means to suffer with others and find hope in the midst of pain” ^[2].

European countries show their grief in many ways. Thousands of people gathered to pray the rosary for Francis’s soul in St. Peter’s Square on the evening he died ^[3]. The European Commission lowered their flags to honor him ^[3]. French President Emmanuel Macron praised the pope because he stood “at the sides of the most vulnerable, the most fragile, with a lot of humility” ^[2].

Memorial Masses and special services bring together regular churchgoers and those who had drifted away from faith all over the United States. People come to pray and reflect at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. New York City Mayor Eric Adams joined a memorial Mass there ^[4]. Churches in Fall River, Massachusetts created simple memorial spaces with framed portraits of the pope surrounded by flowers ^[4].

The Middle East shows Francis’s worldwide influence in a special way. Christian communities in Gaza held special Masses at Holy Family Church. Francis had made “daily calls to” this church during the recent conflict ^[5]. The Palestine Red Crescent praised him as “one of the most prominent supporters of justice and human dignity” ^[2].

2. What lay Catholics are saying

Regular Catholics feel a deep personal connection to Francis’s papacy. Linda Ekstrom knelt in prayer at St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral in Massachusetts. She shared later: “I thought Francis was a bridge to a new understanding, to a bigger heart and more awareness of our core values and of immigrants” ^[4]. Many others echo this view, often mentioning Francis’s approachable nature and humble spirit.

Young Catholics saw Francis as a symbol of hope for change in the church. Katie Wojda studies for her Master of Divinity at Loyola University Chicago. She explained how the pope’s leadership kept her faith strong through difficult times: “Knowing that he was my pope kept me grounded throughout many years. I often thought about what Pope Francis’ response to my questioning would be, and realized it would probably be something loving, something very kind” ^[4].

Not everyone shares these positive feelings. Some Catholic communities, especially traditionalists, struggled with Francis’s progressive ideas. One online commenter voiced their concern: “Has he been compromised? Is it possible he has been led astray trying to appease the progressives?” ^[6]. Groups like the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests expressed their disappointment. They said Francis “refused to enact a universal zero tolerance law for abuse and cover-up” ^[3].

All the same, Francis represented genuine Christianity that went beyond church walls for many everyday Catholics. Christina Nguyen from Portland, Oregon, shared: “He was a loving father to those who are unfortunate, to those who are pushed away from society, the small and forgotten. I loved him for that” ^[4]. Jim Wang, who moved from China to New York and became Catholic last year, captured what many felt: “Francis’ papacy gave me the courage to finally say yes to the church” ^[4].

The Church’s Identity Crisis

Pope Francis’s papacy explains deep divisions within the Catholic Church that will determine its future path. These divisions run deep and show an institution trying to find its identity in a world that changes faster than ever, where old teachings clash with modern social views.

1. Tensions between tradition and progress

Pope Francis found himself caught between two opposing forces in the Church. Traditionalists see any change from 2000-year-old doctrine as betraying sacred principles. Progressives believe the Church needs to adapt to stay meaningful. This clash shows up in almost every part of Church life.

The Latin Mass debate perfectly shows this split. Francis restricted the traditional Latin liturgy that had become more popular under Benedict XVI. This decision angered traditionalists who believe it represents the purest form of worship. Progressive Catholics supported the change as they saw it essential to keep Church unity.

The Pope’s handling of divorced Catholics stirred up similar debates. He let divorced and remarried Catholics receive communion in certain cases. Traditionalists saw this pastoral approach as weakening the Church’s teaching about marriage being forever.

The culture wars extend beyond liturgy and sacraments. Progressive Catholics praised Francis’s environmental message in “Laudato Si’,” but conservatives thought he stepped too far into politics. Yes, it is his criticisms of unfettered capitalism and focus on climate action that pushed the Church in unexpected directions on world issues.

2. The Catholic Church in crisis: cultural and moral divides

Catholic culture splits along geographic lines. Western Catholics in Europe and North America usually want changes in views about sexuality, gender roles, and Church leadership. Catholics in Africa, some Asian regions, and parts of Latin America managed to keep more traditional beliefs.

Church leaders face a tough balancing act because of these regional differences. To name just one example, see Francis’s “Who am I to judge?” comment about gay Catholics. This changed the tone but didn’t change Church teaching. Neither side liked this middle ground – traditionalists wanted old teachings reinforced while progressives pushed for real change.

The role of women remains controversial. Francis created a commission to study women deacons and gave more Vatican jobs to women. Yet he kept the men-only priesthood rule. This shows how hard it is to balance old traditions with calls for gender equality.

Age differences make these problems worse. Young Catholics in developed countries think very differently from Church leaders about birth control, same-sex relationships, and women priests. Many young believers struggle to stay faithful while questioning Church teachings.

The clergy abuse scandal affects all these identity questions. Francis took action on this crisis, but both progressive and traditional critics say his reforms didn’t do enough to hold people accountable and protect victims.

The next pope will lead a Church torn between keeping traditional teachings and adapting to today’s world. This isn’t just a theoretical problem – it affects how the Church connects with believers across cultures and generations. The outcome will decide if Catholic influence grows or shrinks in the coming decades.

Voices from the Margins

The Catholic Church faces a dramatic transformation as its center moves toward the Global South, reaching far beyond Vatican walls.

1. Perspectives from Africa, Asia, and Latin America

Numbers paint a clear picture. African Catholic population has grown remarkably from 1.9 million believers in 1900 to about 236 million today, making up 20% of global Catholics ^[7]. Sub-Saharan Africa now represents 16% of Catholics worldwide ^[8]. Asia’s Catholic population has also expanded significantly. Its share of global Catholicism grew from 5% in 1910 to 12% in 2010 ^[9].

Latin America stands as Catholicism’s largest stronghold with roughly 425 million faithful—almost 40% of the world’s Catholics ^[10]. The region faces challenges though, as evangelical and Pentecostal churches gain followers. About 70% of Latin American Protestants now identify as Pentecostal ^[11].

Each region brings its own theological viewpoint. Asian bishops believe that “Catholicism will flourish in a threefold encounter” that includes life-sharing with the poor, connecting with local cultures, and dialog with major faiths like Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism ^[7]. African Catholics typically combine orthodox biblical theology with charismatic elements and believe in exorcism and spiritual healing ^[8].

2. What Catholics in the Global South want next

Global South Catholics just need better representation in church leadership. Pope Francis acknowledged this by appointing more cardinals from outside Europe and North America. Asian voting-age cardinals’ representation doubled from 9% to 18% between 2013 and 2024 ^[9].

Many Global South Catholics want a church that speaks to their daily lives. The Synod of Bishops for the Pan-Amazon Region shows this approach by tackling environmental destruction, indigenous peoples’ displacement, and human trafficking ^[11]. African bishops have also stood against Western cultural influences they see as clashing with their values ^[12].

3. How local churches are shaping the global conversation

The discussion around Fiducia Supplicans—the Vatican’s document allowing blessings for same-sex couples—shows Global South’s growing influence. African bishops openly disagreed, which made Rome accept regional differences in how it’s applied ^[13].

Pope Francis’s stance on the Ukraine conflict reflects a Global South viewpoint that questions “double standards” in Western interventions ^[14]. This view appeals to Catholics from regions that have faced colonialism and economic exploitation.

American Catholicism’s model of lay-led apostolates offers another Global South breakthrough. Unlike Europe’s hierarchical system, it equips everyday Catholics through thousands of nonprofit organizations ^[15]. This embodies the “catholic” parish ideal that extends “beyond national boundaries” ^[16].

Cardinal Ambongo’s words about African resistance to certain Vatican directives ring true: “Unity does not mean uniformity” ^[13]. This principle might define how Catholicism handles its identity crisis after Pope Francis, as the church becomes centered in regions with priorities and viewpoints different from those that shaped its centuries-old history.

The Role of Youth and Women in the Church’s Future

Youth and women hold the power to shape the Catholic Church’s future. Their voices command attention now, though they were once marginalized. The institution faces declining numbers in its traditional strongholds.

1. Growing calls for inclusion and reform

Catholic communities worldwide have intensified their calls for structural reform. The Synod on Synodality has created unprecedented opportunities for marginalized voices. Women’s advocacy groups have hosted demonstrations, petitions, and theological conferences. They want greater recognition of their contributions. Organizations like Women’s Ordination Conference and Catholic Women’s Council advocate for women’s leadership roles beyond traditional boundaries.

The 2023 Synod assembly made history by granting women voting rights. Critics point out that women received just 54 votes among hundreds of participants. The German “Synodal Path” has taken bolder steps, with 230 delegates who study power structures, priestly celibacy, and sexual ethics.

2. How young Catholics view the Church

Young Catholics often disagree with institutional positions. Research reveals significant changes in their views:

• Only 36% of Catholic young adults (18-35) attend Mass weekly

• 65% support same-sex marriage, which contrasts with Church teaching

• 85% believe contraception is morally acceptable

Theologian Fr. Thomas Reese says, “Young people simply don’t find relevance in Church teachings on sexuality and gender.” Young Catholics feel frustrated with perceived hypocrisy, particularly in handling abuse scandals.

3. The debate over women’s roles

Women’s ordination remains the most controversial issue in this domain. Pope Francis managed to keep the male-only priesthood but expanded discussions about women’s leadership through various commissions that study female diaconate. Women serve as parish administrators, chancellors, and Vatican department heads today. They cannot take on sacramental leadership roles.

Theologian Dr. Phyllis Zagano states, “The archeological and historical evidence for women deacons is overwhelming.” Traditional Catholics argue that current gender roles preserve theological truths. The Church’s response to these questions will determine if it alienates or embraces these vital groups needed for survival.

What Comes After Francis: Hopes and Fears

The selection of Francis’s successor marks a crucial moment for a Catholic Church in crisis. Cardinals are getting ready to enter the conclave. The next pope must either heal growing divisions or risk making them worse.

1. Will the next pope be a reformer or a traditionalist?

80% of voting cardinals appointed by Francis himself ^[17] might suggest a predictable outcome. Yet Francis’s appointments weren’t limited to progressives or traditionalists ^[18]. This created a diverse electoral body where no group claims a clear majority ^[19].

Cardinals must choose between continuity and change. Some experts believe that after Francis “stirring things up,” the cardinals might prefer “someone who will take a different, calmer approach” ^[4]. Cardinal Tagle, who many see as Francis’s preferred successor ^[2], shows openness toward communion for non-sacramentally married couples ^[4]. On the other side, Cardinal Erdo represents those who want “a return to the conservatism of Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI” ^[2].

2. What different groups within the Church are hoping for

The biggest problem comes from Cardinal Pierre: Catholics must avoid taking “refuge in ideologies” ^[17]. He believes that “the church is not an organization; the church is the presence of God in human reality” ^[17]. Cardinal Marchetto stresses the value of dialog, pointing out that “those who were there [at Vatican II] found consensus” ^[17].

Traditionalists want someone who stands firm on Catholic doctrine, even when it’s unpopular ^[4]. Progressives hope for leadership that builds on Francis’s outreach to marginalized groups ^[4]. These divisions grow stronger with regional differences—European cardinals tend to be liberal, while many from Africa and Asia prefer conservative approaches ^[19].

3. The risk of deeper division or new unity

Cardinal Gregory points out that “opposition to the pope is not new, but what is new is the level and intensity” ^[20]. This opposition could split the Catholic Church further if the next pontiff doesn’t address it properly.

The next pope faces a choice between doctrine and pastoral flexibility. Cardinal Marchetto suggests success lies in finding “the ability to come together, respecting each other” ^[17]. Yet, he insists certain “points of reference must be accepted,” specifically Vatican II teachings and papal authority ^[17].

The Catholic Church faces a choice between unity through theological precision or unity through compassionate inclusion. The next pope must navigate this challenging path.

Conclusion

Pope Francis’s death represents a defining moment for a Church that stands at a crossroads. His 12-year papacy challenged institutional norms as he tried to bridge ideological divides that remain painfully unresolved. The Catholic Church’s center of gravity has moved decisively southward. This demographic transformation within the College of Cardinals brings different priorities and points of view.

Catholics worldwide have responded to Francis’s passing with mixed emotions. From Manila to Massachusetts, ordinary faithful mourn a pontiff who embodied accessibility and humility. Victim advocates and traditionalists, however, share more complicated feelings about his legacy. Their reactions highlight the core tensions between tradition and progress that defined his time as pope.

The next pope must tackle multiple crises at once. Traditional strongholds see young believers leaving the Church, yet the Global South experiences remarkable growth. This geographic transformation brings fresh energy and new tensions. African bishops’ public opposition to Vatican’s stance on blessing same-sex couples illustrates these challenges. The Church also faces growing calls for women to take on expanded roles, despite strong institutional pushback.

The upcoming conclave holds extraordinary importance. Francis appointed 80% of voting cardinals, yet he chose a diverse group rather than ideological allies. This makes the outcome truly unpredictable. Cardinals face a crucial choice between continuing Francis’s reforms or returning to traditional approaches.

The Catholic Church’s biggest challenge lies in achieving unity without forcing uniformity, whatever leader emerges as the next pontiff. Finding balance between clear doctrine and flexible pastoral care will test an institution that spans continents, cultures, and competing visions of Catholicism’s future.

FAQs

Q1. How did Pope Francis impact the Catholic Church during his papacy? Pope Francis shifted the Church’s focus towards social and environmental issues, emphasizing climate change as a moral concern and critiquing unfettered capitalism. He also increased financial transparency within the Vatican and adopted a more inclusive approach towards marginalized groups.

Q2. What are the main challenges facing the Catholic Church after Pope Francis? The Church faces tensions between traditionalists and progressives, declining numbers in traditional strongholds, and the need to address the growing influence of the Global South. It must also navigate issues such as women’s roles, youth engagement, and maintaining unity amid diverse perspectives.

Q3. How will the next pope be chosen? The next pope will be elected by the College of Cardinals during a conclave. With 80% of voting cardinals appointed by Francis, the outcome is unpredictable. The cardinals will decide whether to continue Francis’s reform efforts or potentially return to more traditional approaches.

Q4. What role do young Catholics and women play in shaping the Church’s future? Young Catholics and women are increasingly vocal about reform, with many supporting progressive changes in areas like same-sex relationships and women’s ordination. Their engagement and perspectives are crucial for the Church’s relevance and growth, particularly in addressing declining numbers in some regions.

Q5. How has the global distribution of Catholics changed, and what does this mean for the Church? The center of Catholicism has shifted towards the Global South, with significant growth in Africa and Asia. This demographic change brings new perspectives and priorities, influencing debates on doctrine and pastoral approaches. The Church must balance these diverse viewpoints to maintain unity while addressing regional differences.

References

[1] – https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/263531/what-happens-during-the-vatican-s-nine-days-of-mourning-for-the-pope
[2] – https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/21/world/europe/next-pope-francis-candidates.html
[3] – https://www.ncronline.org/vatican/vatican-news/church-and-world-leaders-offer-tributes-pope-francis
[4] – https://nypost.com/2025/04/21/world-news/who-will-be-next-pope-after-francis-vatican-conclave/
[5] – https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c15v0zdnnjqo
[6] – https://www.reddit.com/r/Catholicism/comments/18sxa9p/how_do_you_guys_feel_about_pope_francis/
[7] – https://dornsife.usc.edu/iacs/2022/04/30/global-christianity/
[8] – https://dwightlongenecker.com/why-the-african-church-is-different/
[9] – https://www.ucanews.com/news/southeast-asia-represents-the-future-growth-region-of-catholicism/106192
[10] – https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2014/11/13/religion-in-latin-america/
[11] – https://www.laciviltacattolica.com/contemporary-challenges-for-global-catholicism/
[12] – https://thecatholicherald.com/the-catholic-world-is-about-to-be-turned-upside-down/
[13] – https://www.mondayvatican.com/vatican/pope-francis-between-the-first-world-and-the-global-south
[14] – https://international.la-croix.com/opinions/global-shift-in-catholicism
[15] – https://napa-institute.org/the-church-in-america-has-what-global-catholicism-needs/
[16] – https://www.usccb.org/resources/called-global-solidarity-international-challenges-us-parishes
[17] – https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/new-cardinals-say-building-church-unity-urgent-need
[18] – https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgxk40ndk1o
[19] – https://www.newsweek.com/next-pope-where-candidates-stand-scale-liberal-conservative-2062704
[20] – https://wherepeteris.com/christs-plea-for-unity-in-a-divided-church/