It’s an honest and important question. If the Pope is the visible head of the Church on earth, how can history include Popes who acted unjustly or lived immorally? Asking this doesn’t show doubt—it shows a sincere desire to understand how God’s grace works through imperfect people.
The truth is, yes—there have been Popes throughout history who failed to live holy lives. Some were drawn into politics, greed, or scandal. A few even brought shame to the papacy by their personal sins. Yet, this does not mean that Christ abandoned His Church. Rather, it reminds us that the Church is made up of human beings who are still in need of redemption.
When Jesus chose Peter as the first Pope, He knew Peter’s weaknesses—his fear, his denial. But Jesus still said, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church” (Matthew 16:18). The promise wasn’t based on Peter’s perfection, but on Christ’s faithfulness. The same remains true for every Pope who has followed.
The doctrine of papal infallibility doesn’t mean Popes are sinless or always wise; it means that when a Pope formally teaches on faith or morals ex cathedra—from the Chair of Peter—he is protected by the Holy Spirit from leading the Church into error. History shows that even in the darkest moments of papal corruption, no Pope ever officially taught false doctrine in that capacity. That’s the miracle of divine protection.
So when we read about Popes who lived poorly or ruled unwisely, it should not destroy our faith—it should deepen our gratitude that Christ’s Church does not depend on human goodness alone. God works even through our failures to fulfill His promises. The holiness of the Church comes not from perfect leaders, but from the perfect Lord who never leaves His flock.
Let us remember that Christ’s mercy is greater than our sin. Even through flawed shepherds, His love continues to guide His Church toward truth and holiness.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
