Breaking with Tradition: Pope Francis' Bold Reforms

21 April 2025: Pope Francis' papacy has been marked by a series of groundbreaking reforms that have reshaped the Catholic Church's approach to social issues, interfaith dialogue, and environmental stewardship. 

As a beacon of hope and compassion, Pope Francis has inspired countless individuals around the world with his humility, simplicity, and commitment to serving the marginalized.

Let us look at eight significant ways in which Pope Francis has broken with tradition, paving the way for a more inclusive church.

1. After being elected as pope, Francis chose to live not in the papal palace but in a guesthouse nearby.

2. Instead of wearing red shoes, a crown, and royal robes, the pope dressed in simple clerical attire.

3. On Maundy Thursday, in a departure from tradition, Pope Francis washed and kissed the feet of prisoners, including men, women, and those of other faiths, in remembrance of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples.

4. Pope Francis had fervently called for providing safety to refugees of any race, religion, colour, or community, and for offering vacant convents to them.

5. Women (including laywomen and nuns) have been appointed to positions in the Vatican that were previously held only by cardinals. For instance, Rev. Sr. Raffaella Petrini was appointed as the prefect of the Vatican’s department for consecrated life, and Barbera Jutta was appointed as the director of the renowned Vatican Museums.

6. He continuously strived to raise his voice for nature conservation, environmental balance, justice, and peace, and to collaborate with other religions. (Laudato Si, Fratelli tutti).

7. He categorically rejected both just war and war for justice, strongly teaching that abortion, euthanasia, and the death penalty can never be justified. During visits to the UAE in 2019 and Indonesia in 2024, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of interfaith dialogue with Muslims to promote goodwill and expressed respect for Hinduism through conversations with followers of Sreenarayana Guru, setting an example for all of us.

8. The cardinal group that elects the pope: Pope Francis ensured local representation, signaling the Catholic Church's ascent towards Jesus' mindset and leadership on a global scale. It is noteworthy that local representation has been secured from all continents.

(This is an excerpt from an article published in Assisi magazine in the first week of April).

By Fr. Mathew Paikada

Image credit: PA Media