Conservative cardinals push ‘unity' as secret battle for Francis' legacy begins

Even before Pope Francis was laid to rest in a Roman basilica, conservative cardinals had already started maneuvering to shape the next papal election. Their rallying cry — “unity” — sounds harmless, but for supporters of Francis, it signals an attempt to undo his progressive reforms.

Behind closed doors in the Vatican, ideological camps are preparing for a conclave expected in early May. Key debates will likely focus on whether to continue Francis’ openness toward issues like women deacons, married priests, and communion for divorced Catholics.

Cardinal Gerhard Müller, dismissed by Francis in 2017, has been a vocal advocate for “church unification.” However, allies of Francis, like Cardinal Michael Czerny, argue that what conservatives call unity is really about reversing the church’s evolution toward inclusivity.

Francis’ papacy sought a delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing global diversity. He appointed cardinals from beyond Rome’s traditional power centers, favoring a broader, less Eurocentric Church.

Critics like Cardinal Robert Sarah fear that change threatens the Church’s eternal truths. Yet Francis’ supporters believe his cautious approach — allowing debate without forcing change — has protected the Church from splintering.

Moments like his cautious handling of gay blessings and married priests show Francis’ preference for slow, pastoral adaptation over abrupt reform.

Now, the choice facing the cardinals is clear: lean into a future of vibrant diversity or pull back toward familiar uniformity — all in the name of “unity.”

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