Popes have been European for hundreds of years. Is it time for one from Africa or Asia?

The roots of Catholicism did not originate as a predominantly “white” faith, beginning at the eastern edge of the Mediterranean and spreading across various continents through trade routes and the Roman Empire. Early bishops of Rome, such as Victor I, Miltiades, and Gelasius I, were Africans whose teachings influenced the church’s doctrines. While the papal office has not been defined by race, the historical prevalence of European popes contrasts with the global diversity of the church.

The dominance of European popes in the conclave can be attributed to logistical and cultural factors rather than racial considerations. European influence in Catholicism was entrenched for centuries, and the travel barriers to Rome favored electors from Europe. However, gradual changes have been witnessed, with a shift towards greater representation from Africa and Asia among cardinals.

The demographics of the Catholic Church have been evolving rapidly, with declining numbers in Europe and significant growth in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The criteria for selecting a pope are based on factors beyond race, including qualities like faith, governance skills, communication abilities, pastoral aptitude, and adherence to church tradition.

Non-European papal candidates have faced obstacles in the past, with concerns about age, experience, language proficiency, and administrative capabilities. The current conclave features candidates from the Philippines, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ghana, each bringing unique qualities and challenges. The potential election of a non-European pope would represent a symbolic shift in Catholicism’s demographics, but the core challenges of leading the church remain universal.

Ultimately, the selection of the next pope hinges on the candidate’s ability to navigate the complexities of a diverse and evolving church, address pressing global issues, and uphold the mission of the church in an uncertain future.