Pope Leo begins his pontificate just as many renewal-minded Catholics of long standing are discerning their future position.

There are five identifiable, but not exclusive, options being openly considered by groups and individuals around the world.

Synodality embraced

The first option is to enthusiastically tackle the challenge of implementing the global Synod on Synodality program.

This is the most trusting and hope-filled position. It is a new step for some reformers, who are prioritising working within, sometimes in leading roles, the church’s developing synodal structures at diocesan and parish level.

Convinced that the church has taken on board their advocacy, they now turn inwards with renewed determination.

Insider-outsider stance

The second position is to purposefully maintain an insider-outsider stance, taking on some insider synodal contributions while remaining some distance from the church establishment.

This is the business-as-usual option. It is driven by scepticism balanced by love for their faith and, to a lesser extent, by respect for the institution.

Such reformers maintain an educated distance as friendly critics. Many are sad to see synodality principles being watered down at the local level.

Anger at inaction

The third stance is to ramp up simmering anger at an institution that continues to dither and prevaricate.

Those disappointed with Pope Francis’ performance on issues like equality for women in the church are disinclined to accept a more centrist and moderate Leo as the answer.

If the church chooses to settle down after Francis’ disruptions, such reformers remain deeply disenchanted at the lack of real progress.

Building lay voices

The fourth option is to pivot toward building a lay Catholic voice that becomes a permanent part of church infrastructure alongside bishops, religious, and priests.

This involves drawing closer to established groups like the St Vincent de Paul Society, and newer ones like Catholics for the environment or Catholics for refugees.

These reformers are attracted to amplifying the Catholic voice in the public square and to public ministries more than to internal reform.

Personal spirituality

The fifth choice emphasises developing personal spirituality, with or without connection to the official church.

These reformers no longer put faith in the institution nor support its infrastructure.

Individually or in small groups, they rely on their own spiritual resources to map a good life of their own design.

This journey is increasingly ecumenical and inter-faith.

Time and alternatives

Time will tell how attractive these options or other variants turn out to be.

I am not alone in being deeply conflicted. Another alternative beckons: retreating from active participation in struggles over the legacy of Vatican II.

• John Warhurst is an Emeritus Professor of Political Science at the Australian National University in Canberra.