Scholars debate the legacy of Pope Francis for American Catholics
Pew Research notes Catholic Church hip has stabilized
WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - Pope Francis leaves behind a complex legacy after a 12-year papacy.
Experts say it’s hard to predict exactly what Pope Francis’ legacy will be right now.
When history looks back on Pope Francis, he likely will be seen as change agent for the Catholic church and a man who led it during periods of significant turmoil throughout the world.
Dr. Kurt Martens is a professor of canon law at the Catholic University of America.
“If you look at Pope Francis, it was, in a way, a transformative papacy because he made us look at things differently.”
Professor Dr. Kurt Martens says that Pope Francis certainly left his mark on the church in many different ways including with his approach to people.
“He was not telling us what the doctrine of the church was because we know that. But he was saying, how do we meet where people are looking at the church as a field hospital.”
But Francis had a complicated relationship with some Catholics in the US, and his death came at time when of it are leaning a little more conservative.
Yet the Pope’s reputation for being progressive with a commitment to humility was still appealing to many people over the years, says Dr. Martins.
“Some will say people liked Francis. They were attracted to the Pope, not to the institution. And that’s a very interesting thing, because he brought the message in a very refreshing way.”
Doctor Martens adds, Francis’ lasting legacy is dependent on who you ask, and the outcome of the next conclave.
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