Francis has a progressive legacy. Will the new pope be more conservative?

Pope Francis made history as the first pontiff from the Global South. Shaped by his upbringing in Argentina during years of dictatorship and upheaval, he challenged the traditions of past popes — and the Church itself. He allowed blessings for same-sex couples, demanded global action on climate change, championed migrants and marginalized communities — including Palestinians in Gaza — and reformed the Vatican by replacing members of the old guard and appointing new leaders, including women. Now, with nearly 80% of the cardinals who will elect his successor appointed by Francis, the Church faces a pivotal question: Will his legacy endure, or will his critics pull the Vatican back toward tradition? Credits: NBC News | CBS Philadelphia | Arirang News | ABC News | CNN | The New Yorker | Al Jazeera English | Rappler | CBS News | Bloomberg Originals | LSNTV | AP News | Getty Images | CBC | The Independent | Times of Israel | BBC News | New York Times | Vatican News | PBS | America The Jesuit Review | USA House Reps | EWTN