How Pope Francis Challenged and Embraced Africa’s Rising Catholic Population

Pope Francis’ Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica that honored Congolese traditions marked a moment of renewed connection to Africa’s Catholic communities. His actions during his trip to Italy—visiting migrants and kissing South Sudan’s warlords—highlighted his growing influence on a continent where Catholics are rapidly increasing. As cardinal John Onaiyekan noted, Francis’ Latin American roots resonate deeply with the struggles of Africa as a third-world nation in a globalized world. With his successor-elect election approaching, the church faces questions about how its growing African membership will shape the next pope and the future of the institution.