As the Vatican continues to debate the papal change, the eyes of the world have turned to the Catholic Church. But surprisingly, another religion the Mormon Church is also keeping a close eye on the papal change.
Does it really matter to the LDS Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints who becomes the pope? Yes, and the reasons are interesting. Who the candidates are, what their policy positions are, and whether this change could usher in a new era in interfaith relations we’ll find out here.
The Pope’s Election: How Does It Happen?
Cardinals vote in secret inside the Sistine Chapel
When the Pope resigns or dies, a special meeting of cardinals, called a conclave, is held. This meeting is held in secret in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican.
Process and timeline:
- Only cardinals under 80 can vote.
- A 2/3 majority is required to elect a new pope.
- Voting can take days or weeks.
- A wispy trail of white smoke heralds the beginning of a new era for the Catholic Church.
Given Pope Francis’ current health and age, many experts are calling for a change of heart.
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Leading candidates for the next pope
1. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
- Attitude: Progressive on environmental and social justice.
- Aspects: Has the potential to be the first African born Pope
- Influence: Innovative advocate for justice in the global south.
2. Cardinal Matteo Juppi (Italy)
- Attitude: Humanistic and peace-loving like Pope Francis.
- Traits: Peace-loving and affable.
- Popularity: Popular with reformists.
3. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
- Attitude: Emphasis on humility and service.
- Specialties: Excellent media presence.
- Peacemakerr:A crossroads where Eastern values meet Western ideals
4. Cardinal Mark Olet (Canada)
- Attitude: Traditionalist and conservative.
- Specialties: Experienced in Vatican administration.
- Approach: Attractive option for supporters of papal traditions.
5. Cardinal Christoph Schönborn (Austria)
- Attitude: Religiously conservative, but warm with people.
- Specialties: Best known as editor of the Catechism.
- Honors: Recognised as a long-time and scholarly figure.
New Pope: Global Impact
The pope is not just the leader of the church he also shapes the direction of global religion.
Specific issues where new direction could be seen:
- Approaches to LGBTQ+ issues
- Abortion and women’s health issues
- Policies for immigrants and refugees
- Direction in education and human services
The Catholic Church’s influence under this new leadership will have a profound impact on world politics and culture and so the Mormon Church is watching closely.
Why is the Mormon Church watching?
Shared Global Concerns
- Religious Freedom: Both churches face growing secularism and legal challenges worldwide.
- Moral Voice: As moral compasses in many societies, their influence shapes cultural debates.
- Humanitarian Work: LDS Charities and Catholic Relief Services often work in similar regions.
Theological Differences but Strategic Interest
- The Catholic Church is ancient and hierarchical; the Mormon Church is modern and centralized.
- While they differ on core doctrines (e.g., nature of God, priesthood, scripture), both value family, missionary work, and community service.
- The LDS Church may see opportunities or challenges depending on whether the next Pope leans toward openness or orthodoxy.
A first in history?
The LDS Church is reportedly taking a formal interest in a papal change for the first time with a strategic eye.
A new chapter in interfaith relations?
Examples of recent cooperation:
- LDS and Catholic leaders have partnered on various projects for human service.
- The two churches have appeared together at several global events on the issue of religious freedom.
What could change?
- A more open dialogue with the LDS Church is possible if there is a reformist pope.
- A more traditional pope would be more concerned with maintaining religious stability.
The future of religion: What next?
This is not just about who will be pope it is about how major religions will coexist in the future.
Key issues:
- Ethical leadership or modern pluralism?
- Will there be cooperation or competition between old and new churches?
- In what direction will global Christian culture go?
Conclusion
The changing of papal leadership is more than a landmark for the Catholic Church it’s a moment with international significance. As white smoke wafts up from the Vatican, the symbolic message travels far beyond the church’s walls to Salt Lake City and São Paulo. To many Protestant observers, the election of a new pope is more than a religious tradition; it is a sign of a larger realignment of the global landscape of religious influence and leadership. This choice, while based in Catholic ritual, has implications for the whole world of faith.
