Papal Conclave

I think that the next pope will definitely have to address many big and possibly hot-button issues since our world is changing so much. For example, I think the new Pope will have to discuss gay marriage, the sex abuse scandal, contraception, women in the Church, involving the youth in the Church more, and many more. Though the Church already has established views on some of these topics, I think the new Pope will have to further explain these views or adapt them. I think the future of the Church needs general open-mindedness and acceptance of the fact that it may have to adjust to an ever-changing world and congregation. I think the new pope may face some challenges when it comes to working with young people. One of the Church's weaknesses right now is that it is not very inviting to young people who are a product of our modern world. I would like to think that being a woman in the Church is the same as being a man in the Church, but I don't think it is. I still feel like the Church holds on to this idea that women are the cause of a lot of sin; for example, I don't think the Church has ever really evolved from its view of women as temptresses. I think women in the Church need more of a voice. Let's face it: the Church is run by men in every way. Priests are always in control of parishes, a woman really can't become anything higher than a sister while priests can climb the ranks, and the only people allowed to vote for the pope are men! I think the Church would be much more relatable if women were able to give their perspective. If I could change one thing in the Church, I would have them change the words of the mass back to what they were before! It sounds dumb and petty, but it bothers me that now we say the blood of Christ was shed for "many" and not "all." This line and the changes in general do not reflect a Jesus that I have come to know in my life, and they make me feel isolated from the loving, accepting Church I thought I was a part of. I do think that there is room for democracy, even in the Church's current form. I believe that if the hierarchy of the Church could be adjusted to be more democratic and include women, the Church would already be progressing. Even in its current form, I think the Holy Spirit works in the hierarchy to help those in power make decisions that truly benefit the Church, its people, and its mission.