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Read what mourners around the world have to say about the issues facing the new pope
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(CNN) -- CNN.com asked users to share their thoughts about the political, spiritual, economic and other global issues the next pope will face. Here is a sampling from thousands of responses, some of which have been edited:
The next [pope] will have to face the realities that celibacy of priests is not necessary or good, that women are needed in the Church as priests and that birth control is necessary.
Rob Davis; Melbourne, Australia
Education -- this will be the most important issue for survival of mankind -- and the most neglected one at present. Let's hope that not only the pope but all people realize the importance of creation of new age man.
Zdenek Busek; Melbourne, Australia
The new pope should search for ways to encourage people to put back spirituality and belief into their lives. If this means reforming current aspects of Catholic liturgy, then let the winds of change start blowing!
Helen O'Toole; Perth, Australia
The newest pope's challenge will be to drive home the messages of John Paul II. No pope before him tackled as many confusing issues as he did. His wisdom was incredible. He kept churning out explanation after explanation of The church's various truths, making them so straightforward and readily understandable, that only the most stubborn would negate them -- even without any solid arguments. Modern society has long lost relevance to basic human and natural rights. John Paul II made sure the church and those who understand the truth didn't stray. The new pope should continue this good work. Spread the word, especially among us -- young people. We are after all the future.
Wiesiu Wojtowicz; Perth, Australia
The most important issue is the decline in priests and other religions. I hope a new pope would consider allowing married priests. There used to be married priests in the first centuries of the church. Priests should be given a choice. This would definitely increase numbers. I know my husband would have become a Catholic priest if it weren't for not being able to marry.
Claire Turner; Sydney, Australia
1. Holding the church together on the platform of orthodox teachings and transforming the contemporary 'worldly' morality. 2. Risks -- submitting to pressures from gay/lesbian, feminist and other anti-establishment groups and change itself like the Anglican/Episcopal churches and loosing its 'salt of the world' role. 3. Juxtaposing against Islam in Africa/Asia. 4. Staying relevant in the new social context of Latin America.
Pio; Brisbane, Australia
Child abuse, women's role in church, marriage of priests, church wealth vs. poverty.
B. Houterman; Sydney, Australia
The late pope made a huge difference in our world. Though his conservative views on how Catholics should live their lives may not be unanimously accepted by all 1.2 billion Catholics in this world, they were a great success to many who had chosen to follow his teachings, "To love is to forgive" and much tolerance and respect for human lives and views.
Leonard Chrisdee Choong; Perth, Australia
During his life and after, many people have been critical of his "conservative" stance on various moral issues. John Paul II has always consistently taught what the Catholic church has always taught, and his successors will teach the same things, perhaps in a new way. Unlike his critics, however, students, both secular and religious, will be learning about the works, teaching and influence of John Paul 'the Great' in another 1000 years.
Mark Power; Toowoomba; Australia
