Even in poor health and advanced age, Pope Francis has used the power of the papacy to do good. Based on the accomplishments of the Holy Father, we should all be praying for his recovery. Here’s what he has been able to accomplish during his tenure.
Pope Francis, widely regarded as one of the most progressive popes in modern history, has demonstrated Catholic Social Teaching (CST) principles through his leadership. CST emphasizes human dignity, social justice, and care for the vulnerable. Pope Francis has embodied these values through his advocacy for environmental protection, economic justice, inclusivity in the Church, and interfaith cooperation. While he has introduced significant reforms, he remains firm on the Church’s teaching that ordination to the priesthood is reserved for men. Nevertheless, his legacy reflects a commitment to justice, inclusivity, and unity.
One of Pope Francis’s most influential contributions is his environmental advocacy. In 2015, he issued Laudato Si’, calling for action against climate change and environmental degradation, emphasizing their disproportionate impact on the poor. This was reinforced in 2023 with Laudate Deum, urging world leaders to adopt binding climate policies. His leadership has positioned the Church at the forefront of global environmental stewardship.
Pope Francis consistently advocates for economic systems that respect human dignity and serve the common good. He has urged political and business leaders to adopt ethical practices and combat inequality, often condemning the “throwaway culture” that neglects the poor. His calls for economic justice reflect CST’s preferential option for the marginalized.
Pope Francis introduced the Synod on Synodality to create a more participatory Church. This initiative fosters collective decision-making and ensures marginalized voices, including women, are included in Church governance. While maintaining doctrinal boundaries, synodality represents a shift toward greater inclusivity and accountability.
Pope Francis has diversified the College of Cardinals, appointing leaders from underrepresented regions such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America. His efforts align with CST’s principles of solidarity and inclusivity, increasing the likelihood that future popes will come from developing countries.
In December 2023, Pope Francis approved Fiducia Supplicans, allowing priests to bless same-sex couples under specific conditions, a significant departure from previous Vatican policies. While upholding Humanae Vitae on birth control, he has encouraged a more nuanced moral discussion, leaving room for dialogue.
Pope Francis has strengthened interfaith dialogue, particularly with Judaism, condemning antisemitism and promoting Holocaust remembrance. His engagement with Jewish leaders and efforts in interfaith cooperation align with CST’s call for peace and reconciliation.
Pope Francis has reaffirmed that women cannot be ordained as priests, citing Ordinatio Sacerdotalis (1994), which declared the matter closed. In a 2022 America Magazine interview, he reiterated that this teaching is not open to change. However, he emphasizes that women’s contributions should extend beyond ordination, promoting their leadership in governance, theology, and ministry.
Pope Francis appointed women to influential Vatican positions, such as Sr. Nathalie Becquart (2021) – the first woman with voting rights in a Synod, serving as undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops, and Francesca Di Giovanni (2020) – the first female undersecretary in the Vatican Secretariat of State. Six women were appointed to the Council for the Economy (2020), overseeing Vatican financial affairs.
In 2021, he changed Canon Law to formally allow women to serve as lectors and acolytes, roles previously reserved for men. Pope Francis commissioned two study groups (2016, 2020) to examine the historical role of women deacons. While these studies found no definitive evidence of sacramental ordination, discussions resurfaced during the 2019 Synod on the Amazon and the 2023 Synod on Synodality. Though some bishops support women deacons, no formal changes have been made.
Pope Francis exemplifies CST through his leadership, prioritizing dignity, justice, and inclusivity while upholding core Church teachings. His reforms expand women’s roles, advocate for the marginalized, and address pressing global issues.
Ed Gaskin is Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets and founder of Sunday Celebrations.