Pope Francis and U.S. Catholics' Views on Abortion and Church Teachings

SOURCE npr.org
Pope Francis remains popular among U.S. Catholics, with 75% having favorable views of him, but many disagree with various teachings of the Catholic Church, particularly on issues like abortion rights. The report also highlights diverse views among U.S. Catholics based on political leanings and worship frequency.

Key Points

  • 75% of U.S. Catholics have a favorable view of Pope Francis
  • 6 in 10 U.S. adult Catholics believe abortion should be legal in all or most cases
  • Catholic opinion on abortion rights aligns with political leanings
  • Catholics who attend mass less frequently are more likely to support legal abortion
  • 33% of U.S. Catholics identify as Hispanic
  • Many U.S. Catholics desire changes in church teachings, including on contraception, priest marriage, women priests, and same-sex marriage
  • Vatican guidance allows priests to bless same-sex relationships without considering it a form of marriage

Pros

  • Pope Francis remains highly popular among U.S. Catholics
  • Report sheds light on the diverse views among U.S. Catholics regarding abortion rights and church teachings

Cons

  • Disagreement among U.S. Catholics on various teachings of the Catholic Church