Pope Francis expanded Catholic Church’s reach into impoverished nations
Pope Francis’ 12-year papacy has been a mix of praise and criticism, with his modernized approach to leadership and anti-traditional views drawing both admiration and skepticism. During his time as pontiff, he worked tirelessly to expand the Catholic Church’s influence and reach, particularly in regions often overlooked by previous leaders.
One of Pope Francis’ key legacies is his intentional appointment of cardinals from 24 nations that had never been represented before. This move was aimed at giving a voice to regions that are often marginalized within the Church. According to Tim Gabrielli, an associate professor at the University of Dayton, this strategic approach to cardinal appointments was a significant step towards broadening the Church’s geographical reach.
In 2017, Pope Francis convened a Synodal Assembly to discuss the Amazon region and climate change, highlighting his commitment to addressing pressing global issues and giving visibility to regions that are often exploited for resources. Gabrielli believes that this emphasis on economic exploitation and environmental concerns aligns with Pope Francis’ broader mission as a pontiff.
Pope Francis’ historic election as the first pope from the Global South, hailing from Argentina, signaled a new era of inclusivity and diversity within the Church. His emphasis on the importance of every region and community reflects his vision of a truly global and inclusive Church.
Looking ahead, Pope Francis’ impact will be felt through his successor, who will continue to build on his legacy of internationalization and inclusivity. By planting seeds of diversity and visibility in regions that are often overlooked, Pope Francis has paved the way for a more interconnected and diverse Catholic Church.
In conclusion, Pope Francis’ papacy has been characterized by a commitment to expanding the Church’s reach and giving voice to marginalized communities. His legacy of inclusivity and diversity will continue to shape the future of the Catholic Church for years to come.
Gabriele Regalbuto is a Senior Editor of SEO at Fox News Digital, with a background in Journalism and Communications from West Virginia University. She has covered a wide range of breaking news events and has a keen interest in global affairs and social issues.
