A Decade of Division: Pope Francis' Impact on the U.S. Catholic Church

Pope Francis' progressive approach led to significant discord within the U.S. Catholic Church over conservative viewpoints on issues like immigration and same-sex marriage. His death marks the end of a transformative papacy admired by some for modernization but criticized by others for deviation from traditional Catholic values.

Pope Francis' historic 2015 visit to the United States was initially seen as a harbinger of a revitalized era for the Catholic Church in the nation. However, the subsequent years were marked by deep divisions between the pope's progressive vision and an increasingly vocal conservative segment of the U.S. church.

As Francis' progressive policies clashed with traditional values, the tension within the church became a reflection of broader political and cultural conflicts in the country. The conservative faction's growing influence was evident in their strong support for Donald Trump, highlighting the schism in U.S. Catholic views on immigration, climate change, and same-sex marriage.

Following Francis' death, the debate surrounding his legacy continues to echo through the corridors of power within the church. Despite conservative resistance, his tenure ushered in much-needed modernization, seen in his broadening of global church representation and advocacy for marginalized communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)