Catholic Church Faces Obstacles preceding the Selection of the Next Pontiff

Tackling a plethora of challenges, the Catholic Church stands on the brink of electing a new pope. One of the major hurdles facing the Church is the attempt to balance the demands of both liberal and conservative faithful. The upcoming conclave, scheduled for May 7, has sparked a flurry of discussions among cardinals, and these talks have been keenly observed by media outlets like The Washington Post (WP).

The Church faces a conundrum of modern issues that range from religious and ethnic conflicts, to the rise of nationalism, secularism, and anti-immigrant sentiments. Other hot-button topics include the expansion of women's rights in the priesthood, allowing married men to become priests, the ongoing problem of sexual abuse within the Church's ranks, and the Vatican's financial difficulties.

As the Church grapples with these concerns, the divide between Catholics becomes evident. This schism is manifest between the 'liberals' who push for progressive reforms and the 'traditionalists' who prefer a return to time-honored teachings. Pope Francis, who championed diversity and inclusivity but passed away on April 21 after a stroke at the age of 88, belonged to the former group.

The divide among Catholics varies by region. In the U.S., discourse revolves around transgender rights and abortion, whereas European conversations often gravitate towards migration issues. In Africa, debates focus on Catholics adhering to local customs that contradict Christian teachings, such as polygamy.

Reports suggest that conservatives are pushing for the creation of a papal "cabinet" or group of senior cardinal-advisors to assist the pope. Anders Arborelius, one of the cardinals, stated that the team would help manage the "complex" and intricate issues facing the Church and the world.

Arborelius dismissed rumors of cardinals systematically disparaging Pope Francis during their discussions. However, he did reveal that many hope for a pope who is "calm and less active," differing markedly from the charismatic and active leadership style of the late pontiff. The ideal pope, according to the cardinal's perspective, would exhibit the "prophetic voice of John Paul," the "theological depth of Benedict," and the "heart of mercy" reminiscent of Francis.

Within the Catholic Church, discussions among cardinals prior to the upcoming conclave, scheduled for May 7, have highlighted a divide between traditionalists, who advocate for a return to traditional teachings, and liberals, pushing for progressive reforms.
The debate surrounding migration issues has been a significant point of contention in Catholic discussions, particularly in Europe, where it has become a topic of focus in conversations about the Church's role in modern society.
In examining the landscape of the Catholic Church ahead of the election of a new pope, reports have emerged suggesting that conservatives are advocating for the creation of a papal "cabinet" or group of senior cardinal-advisors to assist the pope in managing the complex issues facing the Church and the world.
The preferences for the desired leadership style of the new pope among cardinals have been disclosed, with some expressing a desire for a pope who is calm and less active, contrasting with the charismatic and active leadership style exhibited by Pope Francis.