The last three popes each faced big challenges during their time. Pope John Paul II stood up against communism with strong faith and moral courage. Pope Benedict XVI defended the truth of the Church when people started believing that there was no absolute right or wrong. Pope Francis came during a time when the world was divided and cold, and he called people to meet each other with love and understanding.
Each pope had their own special way of leading. Now, the next pope faces a different kind of crisis — not a loud one like war or ideology, but a deep and quiet one: moral collapse.
Today, many people treat truth like personal opinion. They follow their own conscience but don’t learn what is truly right or wrong. Holiness is often ignored in favor of being popular or relevant. On social media, people care more about looking good than being good, more about performing than praying, and more about staying in their own group than being united with others.
The Church cannot stay silent in this situation. It must speak clearly, especially to people who feel lost or numb. The next pope must be brave, clear, and caring — like a true shepherd.
The writer of this article, Gia Chacon, grew up during the time of John Paul II, who showed that the Church should not run away from the world’s problems, but step into them with courage and mercy. His writings still feel important today.
Benedict XVI continued this path with deep thinking and faith. He warned that not believing in truth can be dangerous for society. His teaching helped guide the Church through confusing times.
Pope Francis spoke out against division and hate. He reminded us that talking and listening to others is not weakness but strength, because the truth does not fear honest conversation.
All three popes were faithful to truth, in their own ways. The next pope must also be faithful, with boldness and courage. He must name the false gods of our time — like comfort, social media distraction, extreme self-focus, and not caring about others — and call us to something higher.
We do not need a pope who tries to be popular or carefully manages his image. We need one who boldly speaks eternal truths, even if it’s unpopular. He must be a strong leader, a wise teacher, and a holy prophet.
The pope’s job is not to reflect the world, but to help save it. That is the great and urgent mission for the next pope.
Source: NCR by Gia Chacon
