Recently, Pope Francis strongly condemned former President Donald Trump’s deportation policies, calling them morally wrong and urging a more compassionate approach. His condemnation made headlines, but more importantly, it raises an essential question: Who is the Pope, and why does his opinion still carry significant weight in political matters, even long after the fall of monarchies? To understand this, we must examine the historical role of the Pope and its evolution over the centuries.
The Pope is the Bishop of Rome and the head of the worldwide Catholic Church. His role dates back nearly 2,000 years to St. Peter, whom Catholics recognize as the first Bishop of Rome. As religious leaders, Popes primarily spread Christianity, guided Christian communities, settled disputes, and defended their faith. As Christianity expanded and monarchs converted to the religion, the Church’s influence grew. Over time, the Pope became not just a religious leader but also a significant political figure. During the Middle Ages, Popes wielded immense power, influencing monarchs and even initiating wars.
However, with the Protestant Reformation and the rise of nation-states, the Church’s political power declined, and so did the Pope’s influence over secular affairs. By the modern era, the Church no longer had direct authority over governments, nor did the Pope retain the power to crown monarchs or dictate state policies. Despite this, the Pope remains a prominent religious and moral leader. Today, Popes continue to engage in global discourse, addressing critical issues such as war, human rights, and social justice.
Although the Pope no longer controls empires or enforces his will through political means, his words still hold moral and ethical significance for millions worldwide. He serves as a spiritual guide, influencing discussions on humanitarian concerns, ethics, and global issues. His position, rooted in centuries of religious tradition, continues to make him one of the most influential figures in the modern world.
Works Cited
https://www.britannica.com/topic/papacy
By. Donghun Song