Pope Francis Supports Leader in Confrontation with President: What’s Next?

Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, recently appointed as a cardinal by Pope Francis, is set to participate in the upcoming conclave in Rome, where he will join two other Filipino cardinals in selecting the next pope. David, who has only been in his role for five months, reflects on his unexpected elevation and his commitment to serving the marginalized communities in the Philippines. As the country grapples with challenges to its Catholic doctrines, David embodies the late pontiff’s vision of a church that is more connected to the people.

Cardinal David’s Journey and Mission

Cardinal David, affectionately known as “Apu Ambo,” expressed his astonishment at being appointed a cardinal, especially as he is a humble bishop from a small diocese primarily serving slum dwellers. He believes that Pope Francis values the presence of cardinals who are deeply rooted in the realities of the poor. David’s elevation to cardinal comes after a brief tenure of five months, yet he has already become a symbol of the late pope’s legacy in the Philippines. His life has been dedicated to advocating for the underprivileged, aligning with Pope Francis’s goal of revitalizing the Catholic Church’s connection with its congregation.

The Philippines boasts the largest Roman Catholic population in Asia, with nearly 80% of its 100 million citizens identifying as Catholic. This significant demographic makes Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle a potential frontrunner to succeed Pope Francis, as he was also considered a candidate in the previous conclave. Despite the strong faith among Filipinos, the church faces challenges, including political opposition to its doctrines on divorce and family planning, as well as competition from newer charismatic churches.

The Church’s Role Amidst Challenges

Pope Francis has played a crucial role in restoring morale within the Catholic Church in the Philippines, encouraging a more inclusive approach to diversity and urging clergy to respond to the needs of the impoverished. However, the church is currently navigating a complex landscape where its teachings on divorce and family planning are being increasingly questioned. The rise of charismatic churches has also drawn followers away from traditional Catholic practices.

Cardinal David’s leadership was particularly tested during the controversial war on drugs initiated by former President Rodrigo Duterte. He became a vocal critic of the government’s violent campaign, which resulted in thousands of deaths. David erected a plaque in memory of Kian Delos Santos, a 17-year-old boy killed by police, symbolizing his commitment to justice and accountability. His outspoken stance against the drug war led to threats against his life, yet he remained steadfast in his advocacy for the vulnerable.

Historical Context of the Catholic Church in the Philippines

The Catholic Church has a long and complex history in the Philippines, dating back over 500 years. Initially intertwined with colonial rule, the church has evolved through various political landscapes. Despite losing some influence after the separation of church and state in the late 19th century, the church has retained the loyalty of a significant portion of the population. The church’s role has shifted over the decades, particularly during the martial law era under President Ferdinand Marcos, when some clergy members actively resisted the regime.

The church’s influence peaked during the 1986 People Power Revolution, which saw Cardinal Jaime Sin rallying the public against Marcos. However, in recent years, the church has faced criticism for its perceived closeness to political leaders, particularly during Duterte’s presidency. The church’s opposition to social issues like divorce and family planning has also highlighted its waning influence in contemporary politics.

Future Directions for the Church

As the Catholic Church in the Philippines confronts a changing societal landscape, it faces the challenge of engaging a congregation that is increasingly disengaged. While the number of self-identified Catholics remains high, regular attendance at mass has significantly declined. Scandals, particularly those involving sexual abuse, have further eroded the church’s moral authority.

Cardinal David acknowledges the need for the church to embrace humility and vulnerability to regain credibility. He emphasizes that the church should not govern but can provide moral guidance on political and economic matters. As the Philippines Congress considers legalizing divorce, a contentious issue for the church, David’s perspective reflects a broader shift towards a more nuanced understanding of the church’s role in society. The ongoing dialogue between the church and lawmakers illustrates the complexities of navigating faith and governance in a rapidly evolving cultural context.

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