Pope Francis falls: How reformers emerging from slums can reshape the future of the church?

Dear readers, today we bid farewell to the hustle and bustle of daily life and focus on a shocking news that shook the world - Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on the morning of the 21st local time at the age of 88. This leader, known as the 'Pope of the Poor', has already surpassed the religious sphere in terms of influence and become the focus of global public opinion. His death not only saddened 1.3 billion Catholics, but also made the world reflect on how the legacy of reform left by Pope Francis will reshape the future of the Holy See?

Francis' life can be called a legend. He came from a slum in Buenos Aires, Argentina. When he was young, he had his right lung partially removed due to pneumonia and suffered from chronic lung disease for a long time. Nevertheless, he subverted the tradition of the Holy See with humility and a spirit of reform. He refused to stay in the luxurious papal residence and chose to stay in a hotel; He publicly called for social tolerance towards homosexuality and even approved priests to bless same-sex couples; He has been at odds with hardliners in the political arena over the issue of immigration to the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but has always spoken out for the poor. These actions made him a representative of the "progressive" faction within the church, but also sparked strong opposition from traditionalists.

Francis' path of reform was full of obstacles. In February of this year, he was hospitalized for bronchitis and pneumonia, and his condition was "critical" at one point, even diagnosed with mild kidney failure. Nevertheless, he persisted in waving to believers on Easter, calling for "treating immigrants kindly" and "peace in Ukraine". Just one day before his death, he also met with Vice President Vance of the United States and presented chocolate Easter eggs to Vance's children, showing his final warmth.

The passing of Pope Francis brought about a significant turning point for the Holy See. Reuters pointed out that nearly 80% of the cardinals he appointed will participate in the next papal election, providing the possibility for the continuation of reforms. But the rebound of traditionalists cannot be ignored either. Will Francis' reforms come to a halt due to his departure? Will the Vatican return to conservatism? These issues may determine the direction of Catholicism in the coming decades.

Francis' influence has long transcended religious boundaries. He is concerned about climate change, calls for nuclear disarmament, promotes North South dialogue, and even openly confronts the Trump administration over environmental issues. His passing not only shook the religious community, but also prompted the international community to reflect on whether the "tolerance and dialogue" advocated by Pope Francis is still possible in the current rise of populism and conservatism?

The passing of Pope Francis marked the end of an era. But his spiritual legacy - care for the poor, tolerance for marginalized groups, and longing for peace - will continue to influence the world. For the death of the Pope, perhaps we can see another kind of "change" from his story: not subversion, but a battle of courage and faith. Pope Francis has left, but can the spark of his reforms ignite a new chapter for the Holy See? Let's wait and see.

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