What does the Catholic Church expect from Pope Francis successor?

In the term of office of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church made significant progress in various areas. The diversity of topics, including social justice, dialogue with other religious communities and dealing with crises in the church itself, the diversity of topics. These approaches have found resonance not only within the church, but also in society.

The upcoming Pope faces the challenge of continuing this line and possibly further developing. The voices within the church, which emphasize both reforms and traditions, must be brought into harmony. This could be achieved in particular through a clear and consistent leadership style that takes up Francis' legacy, but also sets new impulses in order to meet the challenges of the modern world.

The synodal way in Germany will also be a central topic. This process aims to derive the challenges in front of which the church is facing and to discuss solutions. The result could have positive changes and controversy that concern the cohesion of the Catholic community. A clear statement and a supporting course of the new Pope could make a significant contribution to defusing potential tensions and involving the believers in this way.

The role of the synod and the question of amateur participation are further switching topics. A new Pope who continues the principles of Francis will have to ask these questions in order to avoid a split in the church. It is important to actively promote the dialogue between the different positions and at the same time maintain the unity of the church.

The upcoming challenges require a Pope that is based on the traditions of the Church and the courage to initiate necessary reforms. Franziskus ’approach of mercy and listening could serve as a valuable foundation on which his successor can build up in order to lead the Catholic Church into a future that is both challenging and full of opportunities.