VATICAN CITY (RNS) — As 2024 unfolded, Pope Francis faced the intricate task of uniting the Catholic Church’s diverse elements, striving to bridge the gaps between its progressive and conservative factions.
His approach was part of a larger strategy to solidify his legacy by surrounding himself with allies in influential positions while sidelining critics.
Governance and Transparency
In October, a pivotal gathering of bishops and lay leaders focused on cultivating a governance style within the Vatican marked by transparency, accountability, and equality.
Throughout the year, Francis aimed to mediate escalating tensions within the Church and between society at large.
Simultaneously, he continued his efforts for peace in ongoing conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and the Middle East, all the while confronting the challenges of reconciling differing priorities among various Church groups.
Despite the increasing presence of Catholic women in leadership roles advocating for recognition, Francis drew the line at their ordination as deacons.
He upheld traditional Church teachings and expressed his disapproval of surrogacy and gender theory.
While he has generally been seen as open to LGBTQ+ Catholics, some critics questioned his commitment to inclusivity after reports surfaced that he used disparaging language to describe gay individuals in private discussions.
Condemnations and LGBTQ Discussions
At 88 years old, Francis remains resolute in his mission to ensure that the core aspects of his reform agenda endure long after his papacy.
Many who expected significant progressive changes to doctrine have found disappointment.
- Outspoken Condemnation of Surrogacy and Gender Theory
A notable document released by a Vatican department overseeing doctrinal matters, which briefly entertained blessings for same-sex couples, stirred considerable debate within the Church.Cardinal Manuel Fernandez, who heads that department, was initially viewed as a progressive figure.
However, in a surprising twist, Francis condemned surrogacy towards the end of 2023, likening it to human trafficking and a violation of human dignity.
An April statement reaffirmed the Church’s stances against abortion, surrogacy, gender theory, and any attempts at altering one’s sex.
At both national and international levels, Francis pushed for an outright ban on surrogacy, disappointing many activists, particularly in the LGBTQ community.
- Revisiting LGBTQ Discussions
Since his election in 2013, Francis garnered attention for his seemingly open attitude toward LGBTQ clergy, famously stating he felt unqualified to judge.Nonetheless, in May, during a private meeting with 200 bishops in Italy, he reiterated his opposition to appointing gay men to the priesthood, reportedly using derogatory language in the process.
While he continues to advocate for a more welcoming stance towards LGBTQ individuals, official Church doctrine still classifies homosexual acts as sinful, leading to limited real change.
- Shifting Power Dynamics: Dismissals and Promotions
Francis has taken a decisive approach to handling dissent among conservative prelates in the U.S. This was notably marked in July when the Vatican excommunicated Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, a prominent critic of the papacy.This action follows earlier efforts to remove other dissenters, including Bishop Joseph Strickland, who lost his position in Tyler, Texas.
- The Conclusion of the Synod on Synodality
The Synod on Synodality, held in October, convened bishops and Church leaders to deliberate on critical issues facing Catholicism, such as the inclusion of marginalized groups and women.The final document from this gathering shifted away from divisive topics and instead prioritized enhancing lay Catholic participation in Church governance, while also challenging the role of bishops.
Despite the Vatican’s hesitation, there has been increasing support among Catholics and bishops alike for the ordination of women deacons.
- Empowerment of Women in the Catholic Church
Looking ahead, 2024 has the potential to be a transformative year for women’s roles within the Church.Women are beginning to assume significant positions that have traditionally been held by men, signaling a growing call for inclusivity within ministry discussions.
Although Francis pointed out that discussions about the female diaconate are still not fully “mature,” the momentum toward greater inclusion shows no signs of slowing, indicating that these conversations will persist and evolve in the years to come.
Source: Religionnews
