NOW THAT THE POPE IS DEAD, WHERE IS THE AFRICAN POPE?
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After the sad passing of Pope Francis I, many of you sent me messages and even wrote in the comment section of my recent post, asking:
“When will the Catholic Church elect an African Pope?”
But here’s what most Catholics don’t know:
We already had THREE AFRICAN POPES in Church history!
Yes, three great men of African origin once led the Universal Church, and their legacies still speak volumes today. Let me take you back into a glorious part of our forgotten heritage:
1. ST. VICTOR I (Pope from 189–199 AD)
From Leptis Magna (modern-day Libya/Tunisia), he was the first known African Pope.
His Legacy:
– Fixed Easter to be celebrated on Sunday, globally.
– Made Latin the official language of the Church.
– Defended the divinity of Christ by excommunicating heretics.
– Reigned during the time of African emperor Septimius Severus.
2. ST. MILTIADES (Pope from 311–314 AD)
A leader during one of the Church’s most challenging times of persecution.
His Legacy:
– Helped usher in the Edict of Milan (313 AD), which legalized Christianity.
– Received the Lateran Palace from Emperor Constantine, the first Papal residence.
– Promoted peace and unity in the Church.
– Banned fasting on Sundays in honor of Christ’s resurrection.
3. ST. GELASIUS I (Pope from 492–496 AD)
Born to African parents, he ruled during the chaos of the collapsing Roman Empire.
His Legacy:
– First to be called “Vicar of Christ”.
– Defended the authority of the papacy as founded on Peter.
– Taught that the Church is above civil powers in spiritual matters.
– Fed the hungry of Rome with his own resources during famine.
– Introduced Communion under both kinds, Body & Blood of Christ.
So, dear African brothers and sisters, don’t say we never had a Pope. Say it proudly: Africa has given the Church three heroic Popes who shaped its foundations!
We are not waiting for history, we are part of it!
And now, the Chair of St. Peter is empty once again, let us unite in prayer with the Holy Mother Church for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, that He may choose a new Shepherd after God’s own heart…
One who will continue the mission of Christ with courage, wisdom, and holiness.
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