As the Vatican’s papal conclave begins to choose a new leader for the Catholic Church following Pope Francis’ passing, many are wondering: what exactly does a pope do?
Let’s take a closer look at the pope’s role and the responsibilities that come with this significant position.
The Pope as the Spiritual Leader
The term “pope” comes from the Greek word pappas, meaning “father” or “patriarch,” which is why Catholics affectionately refer to the pope as the Holy Father.
The pope is considered the direct successor of St. Peter, the apostle to whom Jesus Christ is said to have entrusted the mission of leading the Church.
Today, the pope serves as the spiritual guide for over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, preserving, interpreting, and teaching the Christian faith, all while ensuring the unity of the Church.
The Pope as the Head of State
In addition to being the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, the pope is also the head of state of Vatican City, the smallest country in the world.
With a mere 44 hectares of land, Vatican City is located entirely within Rome, Italy.
The pope holds absolute authority over all matters within the Vatican, including hiring, firing, and managing the Church’s extensive property portfolio.
However, much of the decision-making is delegated to senior clergy.
The pope also acts as a diplomat, meeting with world leaders in private audiences and representing the Vatican in global affairs.
The Pope as a Global Moral Guide
The pope’s influence stretches far beyond the Catholic community.
As a leading moral voice on the global stage, his pronouncements are often seen as more impactful than those of many elected officials.
Non-Catholic world leaders frequently seek an audience with the pope, and the Vatican has non-member observer status at the United Nations, allowing it to play a neutral role in peacekeeping efforts and conflict resolution.
The Pope’s Role in Doctrine and Teaching
One of the pope’s most significant responsibilities is providing doctrinal guidance through homilies, letters, and other texts.
Pope Francis, for instance, has written on a wide range of topics, from everyday matters like gossip to larger issues such as climate change and social justice.
His formal writings include encyclicals (open letters to the Church), apostolic exhortations (teaching documents), and motu proprio (legal changes initiated by the pope).
During his papacy, Francis has made notable strides, such as blessing same-sex couples, restricting the use of the Latin Mass, and taking action to address child sexual abuse within the clergy.
Appointments and Decisions
The pope holds the authority to appoint bishops and cardinals, including the more than 3,000 bishops who lead dioceses around the world.
Cardinals, who are senior clergy members, play a key role in electing a new pope.
The pope also has the final say in the process of canonization, elevating individuals to sainthood after thorough investigations into their miracles and virtues.
Additionally, the pope can convene Synods, or global gatherings, to discuss specific issues facing the Church, sometimes including laypeople in the discussion for the first time.
The Pope’s Travels to Connect with the Faithful
To maintain a connection with Catholics across the globe, the pope travels extensively.
John Paul II, for example, conducted 104 apostolic journeys during his 26 years as pope.
Pope Francis has also been active on the international stage, visiting various countries to highlight marginalized communities or raise awareness about important issues, such as migration and interfaith dialogue.
The Pope as the Bishop of Rome
As the Bishop of Rome, the pope is responsible for the spiritual care of the local church in the city.
Due to his many duties, however, this responsibility is typically delegated to a Vicar General.
That said, the pope still participates in important local events, regularly visiting churches and symbolic locations throughout Rome.
The papacy is a position of immense influence, carrying with it a unique combination of spiritual, political, and moral responsibilities.
As the Church prepares to select a new pope, these duties will be passed on to a new leader, continuing the legacy of the Holy Father.