

EP 303 Mark Stahlman on Pope Leo XIV and the Catholic Church’s Missionary Turn
25 snips Jun 4, 2025
Mark Stahlman, a biologist and tech strategist, dives into the emergence of Pope Leo XIV and the Catholic Church’s missionary shift. They explore Pope's name significance, contrasting current and past leadership styles. The conversation touches on the Church's role in modern financial systems, the impact of digital currency, and global trade dynamics. They also discuss the challenges of solidarity in a multipolar world, along with the influence of Catholic social teachings amid technological advancements. Stahlman highlights how the Church may evolve to address a younger generation's challenges.
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Church's Missionary Turn
- The Catholic Church has entered a missionary phase, focusing beyond traditional Western centers.
- Pope Leo XIV, elected quickly and unexpectedly, embodies this new missionary approach.
Francis as Tough Operator
- Pope Francis was a 'thug,' a tough operator cleaning up the Curia bureaucracy.
- He was once a chemical engineer and bouncer, roles that shaped his leadership style.
Synodality and Decentralization
- Synodality pushes church power downward to local dioceses, decentralizing authority.
- Pope Leo XIV plans to strengthen this reform as a key part of governing the Church.