### Pope Francis and Africa: a bridge between traditions and modernity
During his pontificate, Pope Francis played a significant role in strengthening the voice of Africa within the Catholic Church. By creating 17 African cardinals, François has created a new dynamic which could have long -term implications for the positioning of the continent in the ecclesiastical hierarchy. This movement has often been perceived as a desire to give more weight to Africa, a region where Catholic faith is in full expansion, faced with complex social and political challenges.
The Pope’s trips on the continent, including his visit to Bangui in the Central African Republic and his meetings with figures like Cardinal Dieudonné Nzapalalainga, illustrate a pastoral approach based on reconciliation. These “princes of the Church”, in phase on major issues such as peace and social solidarity, bring an essential sensitivity to a church that seeks to be in contact with the realities experienced by the faithful.
However, this dynamic is not without its tensions. Despite efforts to promote a United Church, certain African voices, part of the Cardinalice College, express notable disagreements with the Pope’s position on societal issues. For example, the recent declaration of African churches disassolving the blessing of homosexual couples, permitted by the Dicastery for the doctrine of faith in Rome, highlights a gap that could widen on ethical and moral themes.
## Duegues of opinion: a reflex of the continent?
Cardinal Robert Sarah, an emblematic figure of traditionalist currents, embodies this opposition to the pontificate of François. An influential member of the Curia, he has often been at the forefront of criticism on various subjects, including the liturgy and moral orientation of the Church. His presence in the Cardinalice College recalls that, even within the Church, different sensitivities coexist, often influenced by various cultural and historical contexts.
This plurality of voices raises questions about the capacity of the Catholic Church to navigate between tradition and modernity. Successive popes have always been faced with this delicate task, but François’ pontificate, focused on mercy and openness, seems to come up against deeply rooted structures.
### A dialogue necessary
It seems crucial to emphasize that these differences should not lead to discord, but rather to a constructive dialogue. The diversity of opinions and experiences must be valued as a wealth rather than an obstacle. It is essential that the church encourages a space where these discussions can be held in all serenity, thus allowing everyone to contribute to the common building.
African cardinals, as enlightened leaders of local communities, have a legitimacy that cannot be ignored. They represent not only different voices but also stories and struggles specific to their contexts. This diversity is an opportunity for the Church to reflect on its role and its mission in a constantly evolving world.
### to a more inclusive church
While we head towards the succession of Pope Francis, the eyes are turning more and more towards these African figures which could play a decisive role in the future of the Church. What voices will be highlighted? How can the Church integrate this richness of perspectives? The way these questions will be addressed could influence the future direction of the Catholic Church in an increasingly interconnected world.
In short, the Pontificate of François, by his commitment to the African continent, opens promising avenues for a church more opening on the realities of its members. However, this evolution will have to be done in a spirit of respect and mutual listening, in order to build bridges rather than create walls. Such an approach could offer light in the discussions on the crucial issues that the Church is confronted, in a world where the challenges of social justice, peace and solidarity are more pressing than ever.