TODAY marks the beginning of the papal conclave, where 133 cardinals from around the world will choose from among themselves the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. Its last leader, Pope Francis I, died April 21.
Catholics in all countries are likely to keep watch until a new Pope is chosen. The tradition and the process date back centuries, even as modern issues and challenges mark the choosing of the next Catholic leader.
Pope Francis’ shoes will be difficult to fill.
He was deemed the People’s Pope and was seen as a champion of the marginalized, inviting criticism from among hois more traditional colleagues in the Vatican. He set records in addressing issues such as clerical abuse, homosexuality, and divorce, and spoke out against injustice perpetuated by states and groups. He offered comfort to victims of war, disaster and displacement.
His visit to the Philippines in January 2015, after the destruction brought by typhoon Yolanda, offered solace to those who lost loved ones and livelihoods, and inspired many to keep the faith amid trying times.
The conclave has occasioned speculation about who Pope Francis’ successor will be, but the cardinals will decide anyway based on their own appreciation of who among themselves is most fit. While isolation from the outside world and influences is more difficult to achieve given these days of technology and interconnectedness, ultimately only the dictates of their conscience will guide the holy men in deciding whom to pick.
The conclave’s outcome will have great implications for a Church rocked by uncertainty, division, and sometimes scandal. The next leader will set the tone on whether the Church will continue with the changes – not drastic, to be sure, but perceptible – begun by Pope Francis, or revert to its conservative positions on many spheres of Catholics’ lives today. It will also determine whether Catholics on the fringes would find themselves in the fold, or whether they will feel alienated and unheard.
In this largely Catholic nation, many Filipinos await with great hope the results of the papal conclave. Whichever way the selection goes, may the new leader inspire the flock to grow in the faith amid and despite the complex issues the modern world presents.
