Chance for Catholic Church to reform

THE Catholic Church is in a period of mourning and reflection following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 in the Vatican after a brief illness.

- PULE MAKGALE

His passing marks the end of an era and sets the stage for a new chapter in the Church's history, as attention turns to the selection of his successor, with a Ghanaian cardinal now among the top contenders.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, made history in 2013 when he became the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to lead the Church. Known for his humility, reformist spirit, and passionate advocacy for the poor and marginalised, Pope Francis championed causes such as environmental stewardship, interfaith dialogue, and economic justice.

Yet his papacy was not without challenges. The Church under Francis grappled with continuing scandals, especially those relating to clerical abuse, and increasing calls for transparency, accountability, and structural reform.