As Africa mourns the death of Pope Francis,worshippers and leaders across the continent are reflecting on the profound legacy he leaves behind — and speculating about the future leadership of the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis,who died Monday (21 April),is remembered for his unwavering advocacy for the poor,peace in conflict zones,and environmental justice. During his papacy,he visited 10 African nations,including Kenya,the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC),and South Sudan,where he memorably kissed the feet of rival leaders in a call for peace. Leaders across Africa,too,are mourning Pope Francis’ death,with Kenyan president William Ruto hailing the pontiff’s “exemplified servant leadership through his humility,his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and justice,and his deep compassion for the poor and the vulnerable”.
His 2015 mass in Nairobi’s Kangemi slum,and his groundbreaking visit to the Muslim district of Bangui in the Central African Republic,are among moments that endeared him to millions of African Catholics — who now make up one-fifth of the global Church. Amid mourning,there’s hope that Africa could soon see one of its own as pope. Cardinals Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson of Ghana,Fridolin Ambongo of the DRC,and Ignace Bessi Dogbo of Ivory Coast are being discussed as possible successors. Yet,cultural conservatism on issues like same-sex unions may influence their chances,given recent tensions between African bishops and the Vatican. Still,as Pope Francis once declared,Africa remains “the continent of hope” — a sentiment echoed now in both sorrow and expectation.
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