Reuters World News Pope Francis: funeral, conclave and beyond
Apr 26, 2025
Philip Pulela, a seasoned journalist with 40 years at Reuters covering the Vatican, shares insights on Pope Francis's impactful legacy as the world bids him farewell. He reflects on the contrasting atmospheres at the funerals of Francis and his predecessor, revealing personal anecdotes about the late Pope. Pulela discusses the divisive state of U.S. Catholicism and the challenges ahead for the new Pope, including fostering peace, promoting inclusivity, and the evolving role of women in the Church as cardinals prepare for the upcoming conclave.
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Personal Portrait of Pope Francis
- Philip Pulela described Pope Francis as friendly, human, and personal in his interviews and travels with him.
- Francis enjoyed laughing and telling jokes in private moments without media interference.
Limits in Sexual Abuse Response
- Pope Francis did not fully solve the sexual abuse crisis but made some legislative progress later in his papacy.
- Advocates felt his actions were insufficient despite law changes to hold bishops accountable.
Pope Francis' Global Political Tensions
- Pope Francis often clashed with political leaders like Trump over policies such as immigration.
- Yet the pope maintained good relations with most countries, highlighting tension was usually between leaders, not their people.