In Seven Popes and the Battle for the Soul of the Catholic Church by Philip Shenon, the journey of the Catholic Church from the warmth of the Second Vatican Council to the complexities of the modern era is meticulously examined. If the shadow of abuse darkens much of the narrative, it is a testament to the deep scars inflicted by the crisis, causing millions to leave the church. Disputes over homosexuality, priestly celibacy, and birth control dominate, suggesting that sex-related issues are at the heart of contemporary church discussions. This is a theme weary Catholics might find uncomfortably relevant.

The Liberation Theology Movement

Pope John XXIII’s vision of the church as a “church of the poor” set the stage for significant reform. However, John Paul II and Benedict XVI were staunch opponents of post-Vatican Council movements like liberation theology. This theology, with its central idea of an “option for the poor,” garnered millions of followers but was linked to Marxism and communism by Pope John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Despite these criticisms, Shenon highlights several models, such as Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador, who was killed by a right-wing death squad while celebrating Mass, epitomizing the movement’s ideals.

Papal Encyclicals Revisited

Shenon encapsulates the impact of various papal encyclicals during this era. While he places “Humanae Vitae,” issued by Pope Paul VI in 1968, at the pinnacle of modern papal pronouncements, claiming it was “the most consequential encyclical of modern times,” others stand out. For instance, “Populorum Progressio” (1967) critiqued global economic structures, serving as a cornerstone for advocating change in impoverished regions. John XXIII’s “Pacem in Terris” (1963) significantly influenced the modern debate on human rights, aiding the resolution of the Cold War. Lastly, Pope Francis’ “Laudato Si’” (2015) placed climate change at the forefront of church teachings, catalyzing efforts like the Paris Accords.

The Alleged Denunciation of Fr. Bergoglio

The author retells the story of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, later Pope Francis, during Argentina’s military junta in the late 1970s. According to Shenon, Bergoglio denounced two priests who were captured and tortured by right-wing forces. However, one of the priests, Franz Jalics, issued a statement in 2013 clarifying that Bergoglio did not denounce them, and the suspicion was “unfounded.” Orblando Yorio, the other priest, passed away in 2000.

The Future of the Catholic Church

At 88, Pope Francis’ future role and influence remain uncertain. The next papal conclave will likely debate whether to embrace the reforms of Vatican II or revert to more traditional practices. Reflecting on a hopeful vision, Francis occasionally alludes to an aspirational successor who might adopt the name John XXIV, acknowledging Pope John XXIII’s pivotal contributions to modernizing the Catholic Church 60 years ago.

JESUS WEPT: Seven Popes and the Battle for the Soul of the Catholic Church | By Philip Shenon | Knopf | 590 pp. | $35