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Francis Still Popular With U.S. Catholics After First Year As Pope

Pope Francis will mark his first full year as the head of the Catholic Church next week, and he has remained extremely popular among American Catholics and many others around the world.

A recent poll taken by Pew Research Center says many people see future changes to come in the Catholic Church. The survey found that over 71% of American Catholics approve of the Pope and believe he has made major changes.

Francis’ effect on people has been dubbed “The Francis Effect” and many say this effect has made them more excited about the Catholic faith.

Allen Kirchner, from Jackson, said, “He is often seen as trying to change the church’s teaching, but in fact he cannot do that. He is simply encouraging us to live the faith that we proclaim.”

Pope Francis has been named Person of the Year in both Time Magazine and The Advocate. Speaking so openly about issues such as gays and lesbians and birth control have made a positive impact with American Catholics and others in the world.

Francis discusses worldwide topics that are very sensitive to the Catholic faith, such as married priests, female priests, and birth control. Many American Catholics say that they believe many of these topics will be allowed in the future. Pew Research Center found the biggest media coverage was when Pope Francis talked about the role of gay and lesbian people in the church. Although this was a touchy subject, he talked about it with passion.

Morgan Kolaks from Kirkwood, a practicing Catholic, said, “I know that some of my family members might not think so cause they are very strict Catholics. The world is changing and it’s better not to be in the dark about it, we need to talk about it.”

Pew Research took a poll of what American Catholics expect to see in 2050. Results showed high percentages for change in categories such as, as married priests, female priests, and birth control. Majority say that they believe many of these topics will be allowed in the future.

Rachel Reishman was an intern reporter for KRCU in 2014.
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