Has a Black African Ever Served as Pope? Many people ask this question, and the answer may surprise you. In the past, three Popes have originated from the African continent: Pope Victor I, Pope Miltiades, and Pope Gelasius I, all from North Africa (present-day Tunisia/Algeria) during the Roman Empire era. However, these Popes were not Black Africans in the Sub-Saharan sense we commonly refer to today; rather, they were ethnically white or of Romanized Berber ancestry. To date, no Black African has ever held the office of Pope. Nevertheless, this could change within our lifetime. Certain individuals, such as Cardinal Francis Arinze from Nigeria and Cardinal Peter Turkson from Ghana, have been mentioned in recent years as potential candidates for the papacy. Their leadership, wisdom, and faith have inspired countless people. As the Catholic Church continues to experience rapid growth in Africa, the prospect of a Black Pope from the continent is becoming increasingly plausible. When this occurs, it will signify a pivotal moment in the Church’s history, serving as a reminder that faith transcends color and borders. The question is no longer if, but when.
