Pope Leo’s Pontificate: A Conservative Continuation of Pope Francis

Introduction: What the Media Got Wrong

In a 2019 interview with Mexican television station Tel Vista, Pope Francis was asked directly by reporter Valentina Alzaraki, “They say you are a doctrinal conservative.” The Pope’s reply was simple and firm: “Yes, I am a conservative.”

This statement shocked many, as mainstream and left-leaning media outlets had long painted Pope Francis as a liberal reformer. The media created a narrative that misrepresented not only his doctrine but also his intentions. This led to confusion and anger among many Catholics, some of whom even left the Church over what they thought were radical changes.

The Truth About Pope Francis on Marriage and Doctrine

The same interview addressed the Church’s teaching on marriage. When asked whether the Church might allow same-sex marriages, Pope Francis responded, “No. Marriage is between one man and one woman. It is a sacrament. Jesus gave us a sacrament. The Church cannot change sacraments.”

This is not new. Pope Francis made similar statements in 2012 and 2013 while he was Archbishop in Argentina. Despite this, many commentators and YouTubers spread misinformation, accusing him of undermining Church teaching.

The Role of Conservative Catholic YouTubers

Much of the anti-Francis sentiment has been amplified by YouTubers who present themselves as orthodox defenders of the faith. These individuals often take the Pope’s words out of context to promote their own narrative. One popular false claim is that Pope Leo contradicted Pope Francis on marriage. In fact, Pope Francis said in 2023, “Marriage according to Christian revelation is not a ceremony or a social event. It is neither a formality nor an abstract ideal but rather a permanent bond of love.”

These are the same ideas expressed by Pope Leo. The perceived contradiction is based on cherry-picked quotes, not full context.

Media Spin and False Narratives

The narrative of Francis as a liberal is not only misleading but harmful. It has caused division within the Church and pushed many faithful away. In reality, Pope Francis had a strong, affectionate relationship with Pope Benedict XVI. Publicly, they spoke highly of one another. Pope Leo has also expressed admiration for Francis, calling him his spiritual father and mentor.

Pope Leo met with Pope Francis every Saturday and publicly stated he would continue the direction of Francis’ pontificate. He could have taken the name Pope Francis II and no one would have been surprised.

The Spiritual Danger of Division

John 17:20-21 highlights Jesus’ final prayer that all may be one. Unity in the Church is maintained through the papacy. To break from the Pope is to break from the Church. The devil understands this and attacks the Pope to divide the faithful.

Obedience is central to Catholicism. 1 Samuel 15:22-23 teaches that “to obey is better than sacrifice.” Rebellion is compared to witchcraft. Critics of the Pope may present themselves as holy, but their disobedience reveals otherwise.

The Financial Incentive for Pope-Bashing

Some YouTubers benefit financially from criticizing the Pope. One channel reportedly raised $90,000 in donations in a single month. Another, led by a suspended priest, raised $900,000 and went on to call the Pope the antichrist and even suggested violence.

Such behavior is not only un-Catholic but also violates Canon Law. Canon 1373 prohibits stirring hatred against the Pope, and Canon 1404 affirms that the Pope is judged by no one but God.

Lessons from St. Padre Pio

St. Padre Pio once ejected a man from confession for speaking ill of the Pope. He said, “Get out. Don’t you dare badmouth the Pope in my presence. Repent.”

When Padre Pio was ordered not to celebrate public Mass, he humbly accepted the decision, saying, “The will of my superiors is the will of God.” This stands in stark contrast to rebellious priests today who disobey Church authority.

Final Thoughts: Stay Faithful

The Catholic Church teaches that Christ started one Church and gave it authority through Peter and his successors. Matthew 16:18-19 affirms that the gates of hell will not prevail against it.

Pope Francis has not changed Church doctrine. His approach may be different, more pastoral and open-hearted, but it is still rooted in Scripture and Tradition. The devil wants you to hate the Pope because the Pope unites the Church.

Instead of falling for media spin or YouTube sensationalism, Catholics should follow the example of the saints. Love God, love your neighbor, and evangelize. Stay faithful to the Church and trust that Christ protects it through every Pope.