Pope Francis Reforms and Their Future in South America

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, has brought big changes to the Catholic Church since 2013. His focus on kindness, protecting the environment, and helping the poor has struck a chord in South America, a place with deep faith and big challenges like poverty. But as he gets older, people wonder if his ideas will stick around after he’s gone.

One of his boldest moves was a 2015 letter called Laudato Si’, where he urged everyone to care for the planet. This hit home in places like the Amazon, where nature is under threat. In 2019, he held a special meeting to talk about the Amazon, pushing for respect for indigenous people and even floating ideas like letting married men become priests. These steps got many excited but also upset some traditional Catholics who think he’s changing too much.

Francis wants the Church to listen to regular people, not just priests and bishops. In Brazil, local groups are following his lead, mixing faith with helping their communities. In his home country, Argentina, some churches are welcoming people who’ve been divorced or remarried, which used to be a big no-no. But not everyone’s on board, some say these changes water down what the Church stands for.

Now 88 and dealing with health issues, Francis’ supporters in South America are trying to make sure his ideas last. They’re pushing for younger leaders who share his vision to take over. But the next pope could change everything, especially if conservative leaders get their way. South America’s voice in the Church is growing, but it’s still just one part of a global picture.

People in the region are split. Younger folks and those struggling often love Francis’ openness, but others worry the Church is losing its roots. With politics dividing places like Brazil, it’s tough for the Church to bring everyone together.

For Francis’ changes to keep going, his allies need to work hard to keep his vision of a caring, open Church alive, no matter who leads next.