How do you view Pope Francis? | Faith Forum

Pope Francis is head of the worldwide Catholic Church, which has about 1.4 billion adherents. As far as the number of followers is concerned, no other single living leader of any religion or denomination even comes close. About 48 countries of the world are Catholic-majority countries.

Although Pope Francis may or may not be the leader of your religion or denomination, his actions impact the world we live in.

According to a Gallup analysis published in January, 58% of Americans and 77% of U.S. Catholics view Pope Francis favorably; he's not as popular as Pope John Paul II, but is more popular than his immediate predecessor, Pope Benedict. Nearly 11 years into his papacy, Pope Francis is enjoying solid favorable ratings from Americans, including those who are Catholic. Yet, his ratings among conservatives in the U.S. remain weak.

A Pew Research Center 2021 found that Americans, including Catholics, continued to have favorable views of Pope Francis. Six in 10 U.S. adults viewed him favorably. Catholic Democrats continued to be more supportive of Francis than Catholic Republicans. Religious "nones" and White non-evangelical Protestants largely viewed Francis favorably.

Another PRC report notes that under Pope Francis, the College of Cardinals has become less European. A majority of Pope Francis’ selections for cardinals represent regions other than Europe.

According to one PRC report, nine in 10 American Catholics called Pope Francis compassionate and humble. Half of Catholic Republicans said that Pope Francis is too liberal. Most U.S. Catholics say Pope Francis has helped the church be more accepting of homosexuality, divorce and remarriage. Roughly six in 10 Catholics (58%) say the pope represents a positive change for the church. But the pope’s consistently high approval ratings haven’t led to an increase in Mass attendance among U.S. Catholics.

U.S. Catholics say making church more accepting are among Francis’ most notable actions, another PRC report notes.

We asked our panel: How do you view Pope Francis?

A man of faith and relationship

Daniel H. Mueggenborg, bishop, Roman Catholic Diocese of Reno

Pope Francis recently commemorated his 11th year as the Bishop of Rome and the successor of Saint Peter. This milestone moment is an opportunity to summarize some of his key contributions to the Catholic Church and humanity in general.

His highest priority is that of evangelization, which is why his first publication was called The Joy of the Gospel. In this writing, he emphasizes the radically comprehensive nature of faith and the necessity of personal relationship with Jesus.

Perhaps his second priority is that of care for migrants and refugees. This care was first exemplified by his 2013 visit to the Mediterranean island of Lampedusa to remember those who had drowned in the sea.

The third priority is his concern for those on the peripheries of society, whether they be victims of systemic poverty, discrimination, violence, indifference, slavery or institutional injustice.

I believe his fourth priority is that of Church organizational structure for mission effectiveness.

All sentient beings deserve respect

Matthew T. Fisher, resident priest, Reno Buddhist Center

As a Buddhist, I can't say I have much of an opinion. The leader-people of other religions are not “on my radar” much, if at all. However, I can share some common themes that I see in his work. We can admire Pope Francis for his emphasis on compassion, interfaith dialogue and social justice. His contributions to understanding between different religious communities and addressing issues such as poverty and environmental degradation are certainly positive contributions.

At the same time, it's important I recognize that there are many deep differences in religious beliefs and practices between Buddhism and Catholicism. While a Buddhist may appreciate certain aspects of Pope Francis's teachings, we may have grave reservations or disagree with certain other Catholic doctrines. It is so essential to approach these discussions about religious leaders with openness, respect and wonderment at the diversity of perspectives among people.

Good will to all

Micheal L. Peterson, northwestern Nevada media specialist, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

I believe Pope Francis to be a good man, one who espouses Christ and His teachings. Although I don’t agree with all of teachings of the Catholic Church, I do believe that anyone who truly believes in the Savior and tries to do good is a good person by definition.

Politically, Pope Francis seems to be much more open to considering ideas and allowing those under his guidance to more freely express themselves than have the last few popes. He seems to be quite popular among the people, probably for that very reason. He seems to preach more love than repentance. To preside over such a large and diverse organization must certainly be a daunting responsibility, one which he seems to handle with little consternation. I further believe that we all would be much better off if everyone practiced good will toward one another no matter our differences of opinion.

I find him courageous and inspiring

Dawn M. Blundell, lead pastor, Epworth United Methodist Church, Fallon

One of the first things I remember hearing about Pope Francis was that he rejected finery and ostentatious displays of wealth and position, and wanted to use public transportation like anyone else. I was instantly a fan. His humility, and his focus on caring for people in need, struck me as a wonderful breath of fresh air. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by some of his movements away from tradition and toward a more Christlike love for people; I’ve been disappointed, too, by things he has refused to budge on. But I’m still a fan.

I was raised Catholic, and fell in love with Jesus, the Bible and the church there. But I never agreed with the idea the pope was “infallible” in matters of faith. All humans stumble. The most brilliant leader, even if chosen by God, will falter. I am grateful for this fellow Christian, and imperfect leader.

Hopeful message

ElizaBeth Webb Beyer, Jewish rabbi

Although the Church’s relations with Judaism progressed due to the Second Vatican Council’s 1965 Nostra Aetate (in which Church policy changed to positive view of Judaism), there was no sure indication of Pope Francis’ personal feelings about Judaism until last month. Then, Pope Francis specifically addressed the unfortunate fallout from the Gaza War — saying the Church “rejects every form of anti-Judaism and anti-Semitism, unequivocally condemning manifestations of hatred towards Jews and Judaism as a sin against God," expressing his hopes "to eradicate these phenomena."

His message of solidarity and hope came after a request last year from more than 400 rabbis and scholars calling for strengthening ties of friendship with Jews. Rising antisemitism has been the unfortunate aftermath of the War. Hopefully, this strong message by the pope will be heard by his constituents and all peoples. All religions can benefit from a message of hope, love, support and compassion.

Values and service

Stephen R. Karcher, presiding priest, Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church

Taking on the task of leading a worldwide institution is one thing, but to be made leader of a religious organization adds more layers of complexity, and one is held to a much higher standard. However, within this challenging framework, and even before his time as pope, Francis has been known for “his humility, concern for the poor, and for possessing a commitment to dialogue as a way to build bridges” among people. I find this admirable and think that these traits show he clearly recognizes and accepts some much higher standards.

Overall, he doesn’t seem interested in merely maintaining the Vatican’s status quo, perhaps he finds the current state of affairs not entirely satisfying. And I believe it’s positive and optimistic that he’s open to newer ideas, like when he echoes the Ecumenical Patriarch’s concern for the effects of climate change and the human responsibility for environmental stewardship.

A breath of fresh air

Nancy Lee Cecil, Baha’i teacher

I admire Pope Francis for being a spiritually enlightened human being dedicated to making the world more loving, humane and peaceful. However, because he is updating certain positions of Catholicism to meet the challenges of this age, some are clearly challenged by his more unorthodox perspectives.

I have not agreed with all of his pronouncements. But I have greatly appreciated his openness to other religions, a worldview clearly compatible with the Baha’i Faith. Above all, he emphasizes our relationship with God and God’s love for all of us. He has mused, “We have some who believe (Catholics) possess the absolute truth … such religious fundamentalism must be combatted. It is not religious, it is idolatry … Religion is about our relationship to God.”

Finally, I have appreciated Pope Francis’ monthly newsletters expressing his love for humanity and deep concern for the oppressed and downtrodden. He is truly a pope for these times.

A very good man

Anthony Shafton, author and atheist thinker

Just about every time Pope Francis is in the news, I approve of his position. He might have condemned Israel’s conduct in Gaza explicitly, but his unequivocal call for a ceasefire certainly rebukes Netanyahu. As a (secular) Jew myself, I appreciate that he has flagged the Shoah (Holocaust) as a shaper of his worldview.

He has firmly advocated for interfaith dialogue, probably more than conservative Catholics prefer. The same for synodality, or input from the laity in shaping church policy. Regarding LGBTQ, he has surely gone as far left as he can get away with by approving civil unions. As for women clergy, he’s pretty much locked in by doctrine, whatever his personal view might be. But don’t get me started on doctrine: original sin, virgin birth, Our Father in Heaven and the rest of the unnatural dogmas of Christianity across the ecumenical board. I can’t pin that on Francis.

A man leading the church

Bryan Smith, lead pastor, Summit Christian Church

Being on the Protestant side of Christianity, I am more hesitant of the elevation of the role of the pope in general. There are also some doctrinal differences that add to the hesitancy. That being said, what I see in Pope Francis is a man who has lowered the perceived, or constructed, elevation of the role of pope. This is for the better. Pope Francis appears to be a man who is one of the people. He appears to be a man deeply in love with God who is willing to wrestle with scripture and doctrine in an ever changing culture. Whether or not that is watering down orthodoxy, I’m not yet sure.

God appoints leaders, whether secular or within the church, and we are to pray for those that lead. I pray Francis continues to bring glory to God through his leadership and points others to Christ.

There are issues

Kenneth G. Lucey, philosophy/religion professor emeritus, University of Nevada

Being neither Catholic nor theist I am generally unfamiliar with Pope Francis, but have serious issues with Catholic doctrine. Francis is 88 years old, an Argentinian educated in philosophy and theology, and the first Jesuit pope (Society of Jesus).

Concerning Catholicism in general, it is indisputable that a number of Catholic priests have sexually abused young parishioners. When asked whether there should be gay priests, Francis is quoted as saying “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?” The problem with this is the uncontested priestly sexual abuse, by priests (who are authority figures). On the topic of gay marriage he was quite strongly opposed to Argentine’s efforts to legalize them. The crux: Depriving priests of the sexual outlets provided by marriage inevitably underlies the issue of sexual abuse. Francis has been unwilling to take on this major problem.

Global advocacy and challenges

Sherif A. Elfass, member, Northern Nevada Muslim Community

Pope Francis, as the leader of the Catholic Church, has been known for his advocacy for social justice, environmental stewardship and interfaith dialogue. He has taken stances on various global issues, including poverty, immigration and climate change. His messages often resonate beyond the Catholic community, influencing discussions on important global matters.

It is regrettable that Pope Francis often finds himself constrained by the need to adhere to political correctness. I admired his restraint and commitment to maintaining a balanced approach, navigating carefully between what he can and cannot address. An illustrative incident occurred in 2013 when, after issuing a statement about atheists, the interaction between the Catholic Church and himself showcased a discrepancy. Despite the Church issuing a separate statement contradicting the pope's stance, he chose not to confront the Church publicly or issue another statement. As a Muslim, however, I do not necessarily agree with few of his statements.

He's a Good (Easter) Egg

Toni King, spiritual leader, Unity Center of Reno

Pope Francis has been like no other before him, using his gift of infallibility to teach God as Love through demonstrations of compassion and forgiveness. He does this while walking the line between where we reside in collective consciousness and the expression of Divinity he must mystically know us all to be.

Each time I hear of his next great proclamation, it’s obvious he could have taken it further, e.g., same-sex couples can be blessed, but not recognized through the sacrament of marriage. Yet, he cannot inch mankind forward by leaving behind those who cling to an old paradigm. Pope Francis must authentically, albeit strategically, remain rooted as the peacemaker for change to take root in the heart of Catholicism. If it feels like slow going, answer the call to join the crusade for consciousness evolution. Regardless of religion, we can all act from a center of Love in all ways.

Next week’s topic: Are faith and doubt mutually exclusive, or inclusive?

Faith Forum is a weekly dialogue on religion produced by religious statesman Rajan Zed. Send questions or comments to rajanzed@gmail.com or on Twitter at @rajanzed.