The Role of a Pope: Duties and Responsibilities Explained

VATICAN CITY: With the passing of Pope Francis, the world’s cardinals will convene in Rome to select his successor. But what does the role of a pope truly entail?

Here’s a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the pope, who serves as the leader of the global Catholic Church.

Spiritual Leader

The term “pope” originates from the Greek word “pappas,” translating to “father” or “patriarch,” which is why he is affectionately known as the Holy Father by believers.

He is recognized as the successor of St. Peter, who, as per Christian belief, was entrusted by Jesus Christ with leading the Church.

This makes the pope a spiritual beacon for approximately 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.

His responsibilities include preserving, interpreting, and imparting the Christian faith while fostering the unity of the Catholic Church.

Head of State

Additionally, the pope acts as the head of state of Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world, measuring just 44 hectares and situated within Rome.

He wields complete authority in various domains, from employment decisions to managing the Vatican’s extensive properties, though he often delegates responsibilities to senior clergy members.

The pope maintains his own diplomatic corps and regularly meets with world leaders at the Vatican during private audiences.

Moral Authority

The pope’s influence extends beyond Catholic communities, positioning him as a leading moral voice internationally.

Many leaders from different faiths seek meetings at the Vatican, and his statements often carry more weight than those of numerous elected officials.

The Vatican holds non-member observer status at the United Nations and frequently mediates in conflict zones.

Teaching and Doctrine

Pope Francis has provided guidance on various aspects of life through his homilies and written works, addressing everything from everyday behaviors—such as discouraging gossip—to significant doctrinal matters.

He has released several encyclicals, which are open letters to the global Church, covering topics like social friendship and climate change.

Other important documents include apostolic exhortations—teaching statements—and motu proprio, which signify legal amendments initiated by the pope.

During his papacy, Francis supported the blessing of same-sex couples, limited the traditional Latin Mass, and implemented measures to prevent child abuse within the clergy.

Bishop of Rome

As the Bishop of Rome, the pope oversees the administration of his diocese, although this responsibility is generally delegated to a Vicar General due to time constraints.

However, the pope actively participates in local events, frequently visiting various churches in Rome for celebrations or significant observances.

Global Engagement

The pope travels extensively to connect with Catholic communities around the globe.

John Paul II holds the record for the most apostolic trips, completing 104 visits over 26 years, while Francis has made 47 trips, often focusing on marginalized groups and pivotal issues such as migration and inter-faith dialogue.

Appointments

The pope is instrumental in appointing bishops, responsible for the approximately 3,000 clergy across Catholic dioceses worldwide, as well as cardinals.

Cardinals, sometimes referred to as the “princes of the Church,” are the highest-ranking clergy, and those under 80 years old are eligible to vote in the papal election.

The pope also has the authority to declare individuals as “blessed” or “saint,” following investigations into their miracles and virtues.

He can convene Synods—global meetings that Francis opened to laypeople for the first time—to discuss specific topics.