As news of the passing of Pope Francis ripples across the globe, millions of African Catholics find themselves united in mourning, reflecting on a leader they believed truly spoke for the continent. Home to nearly a fifth of the world’s Catholics—about 272 million faithful—Africa has become an increasingly vital part of the Church's fabric, and Pope Francis played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of this vibrant community.
Africa's leaders have shared heartfelt sentiments about the late Pope, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the marginalized and the poor. Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu lauded him as a “tireless champion of the poor,” while South African President Cyril Ramaphosa praised his “worldview of inclusion and equality.” These tributes encapsulate a broader sense of loss felt not only in church pews but also resonating in the halls of power across African nations.
Pope Francis’s approach to Catholicism was profoundly inclusive, calling attention to social justice issues that often went overlooked. Over the past year alone, around seven million Africans have converted to Catholicism, underscoring the continent's status as one of the fastest-growing regions for the Church. The remarkable rise reflects not merely a demographic shift but a spiritual awakening, one that Pope Francis actively nurtured through his outreach and visits.
One poignant testimony came from Ghanaian Catholic Aba Amissah Quainoo, who expressed her joy in remembering the Pope. “This Pope has made a lot of efforts to make our faith inclusive,” she noted. Similarly, Reverend George Obeng Appah emphasized that the Pope’s legacy was colored by his passionate advocacy for those on the fringes of society. “He was really loved by all because of his stance on the poor and the marginalized,” he echoed.
In Kenya’s Holy Family Basilica, worshippers articulated a collective reverence for a man who instigated change within the Catholic Church. Rosemary Muthui recalled the Pope’s unyielding affection for the African Church during his multiple visits to the continent. “His love for the African Church was great,” she reflected, and many share her sentiment, recalling memories of the Pope’s personal engagements and messages of hope.
The personal encounters with Pope Francis stand out as they speak volumes about his character. In Kinshasa, a remarkable instance unfolded when Kitsita Ndongo Rachel, a journalist, slipped past security to greet the Pope during his visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her heart raced as she approached him, her actions a testament to the Pope’s ability to inspire. “When we listen to him, we feel that he wants justice for the Democratic Republic of Congo,” she shared, highlighting the Pope’s awareness of the struggles faced in her conflict-ridden country.
Pope Francis brought global attention to Africa's struggles, standing in solidarity with victims of injustices, war, and displacement. Charles Collins, managing editor of Crux, highlighted this impact: “One of the biggest things Pope Francis did for Africa was to bring global attention to the continent's importance in the Catholic Church.” His travels, notably to war-torn regions, further cemented his status as a moral beacon. His 2015 visit to the Central African Republic served as a poignant message of peace amidst chaos, while his heartfelt gestures, such as kissing the feet of South Sudan’s rival leaders in 2019, exemplified his dedication to reconciliation.
Despite these heartfelt efforts, the Pope's appeals for peace and harmony in places like South Sudan illustrate a sobering reality—the limits of influence he held in a region torn apart by strife. As he urged leaders like President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar to prioritize peace and reconciliation, the fear of imminent conflict loomed large, signaling a complex landscape where hope clashed with harsh realities.
The accelerated growth of Catholicism in Africa raises an interesting question: Why does this demographic surge not yet translate into tangible influence within the Vatican? Although the Church is evolving to reflect Africa's changing demographics, the structural representation of African voices in high-ranking positions remains limited. “The Catholic Church's future is African, but it hasn't yet translated into real influence at the Vatican,” Collins noted, suggesting a significant shift is still to come.
As the Catholic Church transitions into a new era, speculation mounts around selecting Pope Francis's successor. The question often circulating among the faithful is not a matter of “if” but “when” an African could ascend to the papacy. Father Ilo, the president of the Pan-African Catholic Theological Network, passionately posits that “An African Pope is not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when’,” positioning the Catholic Church in Africa as a theological, spiritual, and demographic powerhouse.
Pope Francis’s legacy is intertwined with the growth of the Church across this vast continent. As millions mourn his departure, they also embrace an enduring hope for the future. A future where the voices of Africa echo more profoundly not just in the pews, but in the very leadership hierarchy of one of the world’s oldest and largest institutions. In this moment of reflection, the enduring message from Pope Francis remains clear: that faith must reach across boundaries, uplift the marginalized, and strive for a world adorned with justice and equality for all.
