North Africa once thrived as a center of Christianity, producing three popes who made significant contributions to the faith. Today, as Catholics look towards the future of the papacy, many are hoping for a return of the papacy to Africa after more than 1,500 years.
Historically, North Africa was a stronghold for Christianity, especially during the time of the Roman Empire, which included parts of modern-day Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya. The region was often referred to as the "Bible Belt" of ancient Christianity, according to historian Prof. Christopher Bellitto. The hope for an African pope is growing, especially as the Catholic population in Africa continues to rise.
The three African popes recognized as saints are Victor I, Miltiades, and Gelasius I. Each played a unique role in shaping early Christianity and its practices.
Pope Victor I, who served from 189 to 199 AD, was of Berber origin. He is known for establishing the practice of celebrating Easter on a Sunday, rather than aligning it with the Jewish Passover. This decision came after a heated debate among Christian groups about the appropriate day for the celebration. Victor I called the first Roman Synod to settle the issue, even threatening excommunication for those who disagreed. Additionally, he introduced Latin as the official language of the Church, moving away from Greek.
Pope Miltiades, who led from 311 to 314 AD, was likely born in Africa. His papacy coincided with a time when Christianity was gaining acceptance within the Roman Empire. He became the first pope to have an official residence, thanks to Emperor Constantine, who also allowed him to build the Lateran Basilica, now recognized as the oldest public church in Rome.
Gelasius I served from 492 to 496 AD and is notable for being the first pope to be called the "Vicar of Christ." He developed the Doctrine of the Two Swords, which outlined the distinct but equal roles of the Church and the state. Gelasius also addressed the Acacian Schism, asserting the supremacy of the papacy over the entire Church. He is credited with establishing St. Valentine’s Day on February 14, 496 AD, to honor the martyr St. Valentine, tying it to the Roman festival of Lupercalia in an effort to Christianize pagan traditions.
Despite their significant contributions, no pope from Africa has emerged since Gelasius I. The decline of Christianity in North Africa began with the fall of the Roman Empire and the rise of Islam in the 7th century. While some argue that Islam’s spread accounts for the absence of African popes, others believe the election process became dominated by Italian influence.
Today, the Catholic Church is experiencing rapid growth in sub-Saharan Africa, with 281 million Catholics reported in 2023, accounting for 20% of the global congregation. As the Church looks to the future, three African candidates are in the running to succeed Pope Francis: Fridolin Ambongo Besungu from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson from Ghana, and Robert Sarah from Guinea.
Experts believe that as the Catholic community in Africa continues to strengthen, the possibility of an African pope may become a reality. The hope is that one day, the rich history of African leadership in the Church will be revived.