Africa’s Growing Influence on the Catholic Church
The papacy of Pope Francis left an indelible mark on the global Catholic Church, particularly in Africa, where his message of hope and mercy resonated deeply with the continent’s youth. Religious observers highlight the pontiff’s visits to nations like Kenya, Uganda, and Madagascar as pivotal moments that ignited fervor and strengthened the connection between the Church and its African followers. This outreach has proven crucial, especially in regions where Catholicism faces competition from other Christian denominations, such as Pentecostal Christianity in Nigeria.
According to Stan Chu Ilo, an associate professor of Catholic studies at DePaul University, Pope Francis empowered young people in Africa, offering a more positive and engaging vision than they had previously experienced. He notes that the Church had often focused on threats and negativity, but Francis energized the population and fostered a sense of belonging.
The geographic center of gravity for the Catholic Church has been steadily shifting toward the global south, with Africa playing an increasingly significant role. As the College of Cardinals gathers in Rome to select Pope Francis’ successor, the importance of Africa as a fertile ground for Christianity is undeniable.
Ilo asserts that the future of the Catholic Church is intertwined with the fate of the continent, which he describes as a "spiritual powerhouse." The very consideration of an African pope signifies the continent’s rising influence within the Church. Cardinals such as Peter Turkson of Ghana, Robert Sarah of Guinea, and Jean-Marc Aveline of Algeria are seen as potential contenders for the papacy.
In 2023, Africa accounted for 20% of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics. The Vatican acknowledges this "highly dynamic spread" of the faith, with the continent’s Catholic population surging to 281 million in 2023, a significant increase from 272 million in 2022. The Democratic Republic of the Congo boasts 55 million Catholics, while Nigeria has 35 million. Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya also have substantial Catholic populations.
- Andrew Chesnut, chair of Catholic studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, points out that a quarter of the world’s 2.2 billion Christians reside in sub-Saharan Africa. This share is projected to rise to 40% by 2060. The growth is attributed not only to conversions but also to higher fertility rates and a much younger population. The average age of African Christians is around 20, while Islam is experiencing even faster growth in the region.
Pope Francis built upon the outreach efforts of his predecessors, including Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. Paulinus Odozor, a professor of theology at the University of Notre Dame, emphasizes that the papacy’s attention to Africa reflects the recognition of Africans as equally Christian and equally important. He believes that the Church’s presence in Africa is not solely about evangelization but about supporting and acknowledging the continent’s significance.
Christianity, in general, is thriving in Africa, encompassing both mainline and evangelical denominations. The United Methodist Church, despite experiencing a schism in the past year, has witnessed a boom in membership on the continent, where its adherents tend to hold more conservative views.
Ilo notes that Nigeria now has the world’s largest population of Episcopalians (Anglicans). Chesnut adds that Ethiopia is home to the world’s largest Eastern Orthodox church.
The rise of African clergy, theologians, and scholars has also had a profound impact, shaping the perception of African Catholicism as an indigenous and culturally relevant movement. This has spurred creativity and innovation within the Church. Africans are composing their own songs, enabling congregations to dance in church and sing in their native languages.
The Church has also demonstrated creativity in its social engagement, serving as a force for positive change. Ilo cites Uganda’s Centenary Bank as an example, an institution founded on Catholic principles with the involvement of local dioceses. The bank focuses on providing loans for small businesses and supporting social innovation projects.
Africa holds 18 of the 133 cardinal positions eligible to vote for Pope Francis’ successor at the upcoming conclave, although one of them, John Njue of Kenya, will be unable to attend due to illness.
Odozor believes that the conclave should prioritize selecting a leader who embodies Christian values and serves as a role model. He hopes that the next pope will ensure adequate African representation on papal commissions. He emphasizes the importance of a leader with a global perspective who recognizes the needs of all people, treating Africa with the seriousness it deserves.
Ilo acknowledges that Pope Francis’ progressive views were not always universally embraced in Africa. For instance, a majority of African bishops opposed his December 2023 declaration allowing priests to bless same-sex relationships. This highlights the complex and diverse perspectives within the African Church.
He notes that an African pope might not necessarily share all of the same concerns as Pope Francis, particularly on issues that have generated controversy. He notes that there is no consensus across Africa on some of these contentious issues.
Odozor concludes that the Church’s growth in Africa reflects a broader awareness of the continent’s potential to contribute to the faith. It is not simply a recipient of evangelization but a source of missionary activity and innovation. He views Africa as coming alive and fulfilling Jesus’ mandate for his disciples to go out to all nations. The continent’s vibrant faith and growing influence are shaping the future of the Catholic Church.
