Pope Francis has significantly impacted the Catholic Church, particularly in Africa, where the number of Catholics is rapidly increasing. As he prepares for the transition following his passing on 2025-04-30 13:02:00, discussions around the future of the papacy are intensifying.
- Pope Francis embraces Congolese traditions in Mass.
- Focus on African migrants in Italy.
- Cardinal Onaiyekan highlights Africa's struggles.
- Africa's Catholic population is rapidly growing.
- Majority of new Catholics in 2022 from Africa.
- Upcoming conclave to discuss future papacy.
His past actions, such as incorporating Congolese traditions into Mass and engaging with African migrants, highlight his commitment to a continent where nearly 280 million people identify as Catholic. This demographic shift is crucial, as over half of the 13 million new Catholics in 2022 came from Africa.
As Cardinal John Onaiyekan prepares to meet with fellow leaders to elect the next pope, one key question arises: How will Africa’s growing Catholic population influence the Church’s direction? This is a pivotal moment, as the balance of Catholicism is shifting.
- About 20% of Africa’s population is Catholic.
- Nearly a fifth of all Catholics are now Africans.
- In 2022, over half of new Catholics were from Africa.
As we look ahead, it is vital for the global Catholic community to engage with Africa’s growing voice and consider how it will shape the Church’s mission and identity.
