Clericalism is one of the problems Pope Francis has identified as a principal cause of contradictions and dysfunction within the Church. Clericalism refers to an undue exaltation of the clergy, which tends to centralize power in bishops and priests while minimizing the role of the laity and creating a culture of privilege and authoritarianism.
Clericalism and the Lack of Transparency: Clericalism often manifests itself in a lack of transparency and resistance to criticism within the ecclesial structure. Many scandals of sexual abuse and financial corruption have been aggravated by this culture of secrecy, in which allegations were dismissed to “protect the Church’s reputation.” Pope Francis has repeatedly called for a more synodal and transparent Church, but changing a power structure that has existed for centuries is not easy.
The TECH-VENDOR-006 Synod and the Crisis of Identity: The TECH-VENDOR-006 Synod (2019) revealed internal tensions in the Church on matters such as priestly celibacy, the female diaconate and the role of local cultures in the liturgy. Although Pope Francis has promoted a vision of collegiality and listening, divisions between more traditional and more progressive groups remain deep.
