With the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, the Catholic Church is gearing up for a major transition. The College of Cardinals is set to choose a new leader, and their decision will set the course for the Church in the years ahead.
Among the top contenders for the papacy is Cardinal Peter Turkson, who could make history as the first African pope in centuries.
At 76, Turkson is a well-known figure within the Church, especially for his work on social justice, environmental issues, and economic equality. He previously led the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, where he pushed for policies to combat poverty, climate change, and inequality.
His record has earned him a lot of respect within the Vatican, making him one of the frontrunners for the papacy.
If elected, Turkson would be the first African pope since Pope Gelasius I, who served in the late 5th century. Turkson’s leadership could signal a shift in the Church’s focus, particularly on issues affecting the African continent.
Turkson has long been seen as a moderate voice, and while many praise him for his intellectual depth and ability to speak multiple languages, his stances on social issues have occasionally sparked some debate. For example, his outspoken opposition to anti-LGBTQ+ policies in Africa has put him at odds with more conservative members of the Church.
Born in Ghana, Turkson has spent time in both Africa and Europe. He was appointed cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2003 and has held key roles within the Vatican, including Archbishop of Cape Coast and head of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace.
After stepping down from his post in 2022, he became the chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the Church.
The process of choosing a new pope is a centuries-old tradition that takes place within a gathering known as a conclave. When the papacy becomes vacant, the College of Cardinals, made up of cardinals under the age of 80, gathers at the Vatican to vote for a new pope.
The cardinals cast their votes in secret ballots inside the Sistine Chapel, with a two-thirds majority required to elect a new leader. If no consensus is reached, voting continues, and when no pope is elected, the ballots are burned, producing black smoke to signal that the process is ongoing.
Once a pope is chosen, white smoke is released, signaling to the world that the election is complete. The chosen cardinal is then asked if he accepts the role, and upon acceptance, he is officially named the new pope.
As the cardinals prepare for the conclave, many eyes will be on Turkson as a potential candidate. His election would mark a historic moment for the Church, bringing a fresh perspective from a region that’s growing in influence.
While the final decision is up to the cardinals, Peter Turkson’s name is certainly one to watch as the Catholic Church begins this new chapter.
