Is the Catholic Church at risk of a Red Cardinals v Blue Pope showdown? Is it succumbing to the wave of global political polarization typified by today’s United States? Maybe.

Traditionalists are upset with progressive Pope Francis, who now faces a conservative backlash from Cardinals who believe he has gone too far, too fast. This certainly calls to mind the current political situation in the United States. Here we see a large, conservative religious population engaging in political warfare against a liberal secular society growing in power and prominence. In their view, religion is being forced to the sidelines of public life, in favor of a morality with which they have little in common.

The Catholic Church is one institution that has been resistant to the secularization of society. Is the tide becoming too powerful. Is a pending Red Cardinals v Blue Pope showdown the beginning of the end of Papal authority?

What is the answer to the conundrum of polarization? How can we, in the post-modern democratic world, integrate the interests of spiritual and secular folks alike? Can we bridge the gap between religion and science? Can we strike a balance between religious freedom and freedom from religion?

Readers of this blog understand my goal in addressing such topics and raising such questions. It is to reach across the divides that separate us, to build bridges that can move us forward together. We must pursue elevated discussion between those with divergent viewpoints.

In pursuit of that goal, please share this post using the social media links below. And join in on the discussion by commenting on this blog or in my Facebook group. Let us know if you think the Red Cardinals v Blue Pope movement is destined to gain traction and share your thoughts on how to reverse this trend in society and politics.