In recent years, the phenomenon of conspiracism has become increasingly pervasive in public discourse, targeting not only politics or science, but also the religious sphere. In particular, the Catholic Church—already facing numerous internal and external challenges—has become a prime target for distorted narratives, unfounded suspicions, and outright conspiracy theories. This climate of distrust has hit Pope Francis especially hard; more than any other recent pontiff, he has been the subject of a well-orchestrated and persistent campaign to delegitimize him.
From the beginning of his pontificate, Jorge Mario Bergoglio has represented a break from tradition: a Pope who centers his message on mercy, social justice, care for migrants, environmental stewardship, poverty alleviation, and the denunciation of inequality. While these themes have inspired enthusiasm among many believers and observers, they've also sparked resistance and discomfort in conservative circles—both religious and political. It is within this context that a structured conspiracism has emerged, aimed at undermining the very legitimacy of his papacy.
Certain journalists and commentators—often aligned with ultra-traditionalist Catholic groups or the far right—have gone so far as to spread the theory that Pope Francis is not the real Pope, suggesting that Benedict XVI's 2013 resignation was invalid or coerced under pressure. This baseless claim has given rise to an alternative narrative in which Francis is supposedly an "antipope," while some mysterious "true papacy" exists in the shadows, vaguely implied but never clearly defined.
These theories are not only theologically unfounded—they are also deeply dangerous. They create confusion among the faithful, sow division within the Church, and fuel a mindset of suspicion that erodes the meaning of ecclesial communion itself. It is no surprise that some priests have adopted these views and, as a result, have been rightly excommunicated or suspended for promoting de facto schism. Conspiracism, therefore, isn't just a fringe belief—it is an act that undermines the unity and credibility of the Church.
What's more, these conspiracy theorists have not stopped with Pope Francis. Even his successor, Pope Leo XIV, who has so far conducted himself with great discretion and communicative intelligence, is beginning to face distorted narratives. Some self-proclaimed experts now claim that he is a "quasi-antipope," arguing that only cardinals appointed before 2013 have the authority to elect a legitimate pope. This is a completely absurd theory, with no canonical, legal, or historical foundation. Yet as with most conspiracy theories, truth matters less than emotion, paranoia, and the appeal of a shadowy counter-narrative.
Behind all this, a broader agenda seems to be at play—one that extends beyond Church dynamics. In some cases, these conspiracy narratives appear to align ideologically with movements linked to MAGA (Make America Great Again), which promotes an ultra-nationalist, traditionalist worldview often hostile to the Pope's message of openness and global dialogue. The alliance between far-right political ideologies and certain ultra-conservative Catholic factions has helped fuse conspiracy thinking with culture war rhetoric in an increasingly polarized climate.
Amidst this landscape, Pope Leo XIV stands out for his calm yet effective communication style. He speaks little but acts decisively. He remains distant from media chatter and avoids polemics, yet this should not be mistaken for weakness. On the contrary, it reflects a deliberate refusal to be dragged into manipulative debates or media spectacles. His reserved approach underscores a desire to refocus attention on the Gospel message, free from ideological distortions.
For this reason, it is essential for all conscientious Catholics to defend the unity of the Church and the authority of the legitimately elected Pope. Giving any credit to these theories about Francis being an "antipope"—and now Leo XIV as well—means actively participating in a rupture within the Mystical Body of Christ. Faith cannot be confused with suspicion; ecclesial communion must not be sacrificed on the altar of ideology.
Throughout its history, the Church has faced many external enemies, but its most painful moments have come from internal divisions, schisms, and mutual delegitimization. Today, the danger is not just theological—it's also communicative. Conspiracy theories thrive on social media, gaining powerful traction through short, sensational messages. To counter this, we need formation, discernment, critical thinking—and above all, authentic faith, the kind that recognizes in the humility of the Pope a living sign of Christ's presence in history.
In conclusion, the times we live in demand a special kind of responsibility: not to fall into the trap of constant suspicion, not to explain away complexity with simplistic answers, and not to let ourselves be divided by those who exploit faith for ideological ends. Pope Francis is the legitimate successor of Peter, as is Pope Leo XIV today. Any attempt to undermine their authority is a direct attack on the unity of the Church. And it is the duty of all believers—priests, religious, and laypeople alike—to clearly and courageously defend truth and ecclesial communion.
Marco Baratto
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