Contenders for the African Papacy
Should an African Pope be the next choice?
With 18 voting cardinals from 17 African nations[2][3], Africa has made its presence felt in the global Catholic Church. Several candidates with leadership potential have emerged from this group, likely to be considered for the papal election:
- Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu: An influential figure from the Democratic Republic of Congo, known for his efforts on ecological issues[1].
- Cardinal Dieudonné Nzapalainga: The youngest African cardinal elector at 58 years old from the Central African Republic[3].
- Cardinal Peter Ebele Okpaleke: Known for his conservative views and elevated by Pope Francis despite local resistance, from Nigeria[2].
African Cardinals' Stand on LGBTQI Rights
Historically, African cardinals have been known to carry conservative views on moral matters, heavily influenced by traditional cultural and religious norms in their countries. Even though specific views of these candidates on LGBTQI rights aren't detailed, they likely adhere to the broader conservative stance common among African Catholic leaders.
The African Catholic Church's Growth
The Catholic Church in Africa has experienced significant growth, currently hosting about 20% of the global Catholic population[2]. This demographic shift has amplified Africa's influence on the Church's discussions and global leadership. The prospect of an African pope garners both support and concerns from various quarters[4].
Potential Implications of an African Pope
An African pope could bring significant changes to the global Catholic views, potentially intensifying adherence to traditional stances on moral issues such as LGBTQI rights. However, it's important to remember that the Pope's role isn't solely guided by regional perspectives but extends to the broader teachings and traditions of the Church.
- The European Union, recognizing the growing influence of the African Catholic Church, might seek to recruit talents for education-and-self-development programs and personal-growth initiatives from among these African cardinals, given their leadership potential.
- Amidst the potential implications of an African pope, the European Union could agree to invest in Africa's educational institutions to facilitate a more inclusive discourse on LGBTQI rights, considering the traditional conservative views common among African Catholic leaders.
- Despite the focus on the African Papacy, the European Union may find it significant to reiterate their stance on human rights, sent to African leaders, encouraging a more nuanced approach to the LGBTQI community alongside the traditional moral values of the continent.
- With the prospects of an African pope being keenly anticipated, the European Union could engage in a series of dialogues with the leaders of the Catholic Church in Africa from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, and Nigeria, fostering understanding and collaboration for the betterment of the European Union and Africa, strengthening their common bond.
