Is Papal succession as much about, or more about, political considerations as religious ones?

Question

Do you feel that the selection of the Bishop of Rome has always been about who was the most spiritually mature person? Has politics had any effect on shaping the papacy?
Is this to the benefit or detriment of the church?

Answer 1

I believe politics has always had a great deal to do with it, although the emphasis on politics has changed over the years. It used to be that the Pope was literally the most powerful man in Europe, because he had the power to excommunicate anyone, even a king. And an excommunicated king would have his authority seriously compromised. And of course he has always controlled great wealth, which controls events. But now the big thing is that many countries are officially Catholic, and so what the pope says -- or refuses to say -- has a profound effect on policy in those countries. The power to excommunicate is still there, but is of secondary importance to the communication skills of a modern pope. (And do note the common Latin root of both terms.)

Answer 2

This is a difficult question, and the answer would never fit in the space allotted here. Suffice it to say that papal selection has been - at various points - about just about anything! I remember reading once about a pope who was practically dragged kicking and screaming into the job. (Paschal II)

In the middle ages, Popes had considerable temporal power, and yet Machiavellian kings had no qualms about using might of their own to get what they wanted, even if it meant threatening the Pope. So certainly political considerations have played a role.

And yet, the guiding hand of the Holy Spirit always seems to be there - particularly in the fact that the Catholic church has managed to both persist and grow spiritually for two thousand years. We have not always had good popes - but we seem to always end up with popes that can somehow see it through, and carry the church forward.

Answer 3

Probably more about politics. The mix of politics and religion is a no-no, for one cannot serve two masters and retain objectivity. I have always felt that the Catholic Church wields entirely too much power.

As we can see with the priests who are pedophiles, the Church is paying people off. With such large funds available they are able to do this. If they were not so powerful, it would probably bring an end to their "group" and people would shun their religious teachings.

Selection of Bishops has to involve both religion and politics for the Church to maintain their status. They of course view this as a benefit.

Answer 4

"Has politics had any effect on shaping the papacy?"

If you look at the history of the Catholic church, the papacy is a political position. If nothing else it is political within the church's internal politics, if not a political postion on the world stage.

Answer 5

The church should not be without a successor to St.Peter although long periods can elapse before one is elected,and I think you have a point in your question as politics amongst the Cardinals does play some part,usually in conclave various Cardinals will get together to try and elect a Pope sympathetic to their own agenda`s and Liberals will favor a liberal Pope while conservatives will favor a conservative one.
Having said this it is still presumed that the Holy Spirit will have the last word on this.

Answer 6

historically speaking the papal see has always been one of political influence. powerful families have, in the past, feuded for literally centuries to "own" the Vatican. and they have done the most underhanded things imaginable to achieve their ends.

Answer 7

There are politics in ANY organization including every church on the planet. If you think otherwise you are in serious denial.

Answer 8

The "pope", who isn't in the Bible, is chosen by the Jesuits. They are a political group and nothing more. Catholics are not saved Christians.