Church urged to follow Pope Francis in placing trust in women, regardless of future developments.

The sudden passing of Pope Francis has left the Catholic Church at a critical juncture, poised on the brink of significant transformation. In the wake of this transition, the upcoming conclave of 133 Cardinal electors holds considerable sway over the church’s trajectory. As they gather in the Sistine Chapel, the decisions they make will determine not only the identity of the next pope but also the church’s future in terms of inclusion and leadership within its ranks.

One of the pivotal legacies of Pope Francis was his commitment to expanding women’s roles in the church, a sentiment that must be embraced moving forward. The importance of women in leadership positions and their integration as decision-makers cannot be overstated. For instance, Pope Francis made strides in this direction by engaging with individuals such as Sister Mary Scullion, co-founder of Project HOME. Their meeting in 2015 highlighted the trust and bond established between the papacy and women leaders, affirming the essential role of women in addressing the church’s social and spiritual healing.

The influence of young leaders within the church was also evident through the participation of figures like Julia Oşeka, a senior at Saint Joseph’s University. As one of the appointed “Synod Mothers,” Oşeka represented a generation actively involved in redefining the Catholic Church’s discussions on synodality—an initiative aimed at fostering greater inclusivity in church governance. The synod’s outcomes, including the appointment of women to positions with voting rights, signal a paradigm shift in church policy, advocating for a voice for women at decision-making tables.

While there remain calls for greater reforms—particularly concerning the ordination of women—Pope Francis demonstrated a willingness to reconsider previously rigid stances on such matters. His recent admission that the question around the diaconate for women remains open is testament to his evolving perspective. This openness is crucial as the church seeks to navigate the complexities of contemporary society, which demands a deeper commitment to representation and inclusion.

In this context, it is imperative that the next pope continue on this trajectory of reform and empowerment. Pastoral approaches that involve listening to the laity, particularly women, will enable the church to remain relevant and resilient. The archbishop’s call for a “pastoral conversion of heart” illustrates a shift toward a collective discernment of how Catholicism can best reflect the needs and voices of its communities.

As the church prepares for its next chapter, the mantra that “the church is what happens next” resonates powerfully. The inclinations toward inclusion, empathy, and innovation must guide the decisions of the future, ensuring that the leadership reflects the diversity and richness of its faithful. The engagement of women in leadership roles is not just a matter of equity; it is vital to the church’s mission and fulfillment in the modern world.

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