He acknowledged it himself, yet the cardinal was a divisive figure both in Australia and abroad.

He became well-known in the Church for being a staunch defender of traditional Catholic principles, frequently holding conservative opinions, and pushing for clerical celibacy.

In an interview with the BBC in 2020, Cardinal Pell stated that there was “no doubt” that his “direct” demeanor and conservative stance on topics like abortion had turned some members of the public against him.

Many people find it grating that I support Christian principles, he said.

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