Elijah Smith, a former Lutheran and Southern Baptist, converted to Catholicism due to Pope Francis’ teachings on social justice and inclusivity of marginalized groups. However, with Francis’ death, the Catholic Church faces a crossroads on whether to continue on a progressive path or return to traditional roots. The church’s traditional Mass in Latin was modernized in the 1960s but Pope Benedict XVI allowed the celebration of Latin Mass to return in 2007. The question now is whether the church will continue Francis’ emphasis on inclusivity or cater to those who prefer conservative customs and liturgy. Smith, now 22 and a college student from North Carolina, was inspired by Francis’ acceptance of the LGBTQ community, immigrants, and different cultures. He believed that Francis led by example and was very understanding and accepting. With the death of Francis, the Catholic Church must decide the direction it will take in the future – whether to uphold a progressive path or revert to traditional practices. Smith’s conversion to Catholicism was influenced by Francis’ teachings, highlighting the impact a pope can have on individual believers.
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