Pope Francis wanted more women in Church leadership

WHEN THE COLLEGE of cardinals gathers in the Sistine Chapel for the third conclave in 20 years, they will face a complex question: should they choose a successor who will continue Pope Francis's vision, or chart a different course?

- JOMY THOMAS

Francis's leadership style was evident early in his papacy. In contrast to his predecessors, he urged bishops to shed hierarchical airs and embrace pastoral humility—becoming shepherds who live among their flock. Reactions to his leadership varied—some labelled him a Marxist, others a liberal, a revolutionary or simply a reformer who could read the signs of the times. His papacy was also defined by resistance, especially from conservative factions.

One cardinal, speaking anonymously with THE WEEK, expressed concern that the Church under Francis had blurred the line between compassion and activism. He said the emphasis on a Church for the poor was welcome, but warned that in matters of human relationships, the Church should not act as an activist body. Other cardinals, such as Gerhard Müller from Germany, argued that the Church had begun to resemble a non-governmental organisation. Müller said it would be disastrous to have a pope whose views seemed to shift in response to the media.

His defenders, however, believe that Francis indeed made a difference. While his appeals to mercy, love and hope were directed at the faithful, he also raised the Church's global moral voice on issues such as migration, climate change, capitalism and LGBTQ rights. He consistently challenged world leaders on the senselessness of war and widening inequality.

In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, French nun Nathalie Becquart—appointed by Francis as undersecretary to the synod of bishops—said that Francis was elected with a clear mandate to reform the Church and the Vatican. As the first woman with voting rights in the synod, she emphasised his efforts to empower women, ensure synodality, decentralise authority and challenge Eurocentrism. She expressed hope that his legacy would be carried forward. Excerpts: