The limits of the charism in the traditional institution: Reflections about reforms of the Pope Francis on weberian key

Abstract

The present text presents a reflection on the reforms undertaken by Pope Francis in the Catholic Church since his first audience, after the crisis that has led to the resignation of Pope Benedict VI.  Having as reference Weberian types of powers such as charismatic powers, traditional powers and bureaucratic powers, this paper analyzes the current ecclesial situation under the influx of the reformed Charism of Francis,  legitimated by the tradition of apostolic succession and established in the ecclesiastical bureaucracy. The current Pope adds in his person and function, the charismatic, traditional and institutional powers. Although Weberian sociology provides analytical keys for reflection, it should not lead to the identification of pure charismatic type powers in the person of the renovator. The tension between the charism, the tradition and the bureaucratic organization constitute a challenge and the possibility of reformation in the structure and functions of the Church.  Pope Francis faces the challenge of implementing reforms in an organization whose function is to preserve and not to innovate; being necessary to use strategies to translate their ideals into objective rules. This passage from the personal charism to institutional objectivity can lead the whole Church to reform despite inherent resistances to every bureaucratic institution in order to produce the desired reforms.