Very few events command global attention. FIFA World Cup is one of them. Like it or not, American presidential election will force itself on your space except you are not a fan of news. You may have your issues with the British monarch but the death of the King or Queen of England and the ascension to the throne of the heir is a major event that you cannot ignore.
Of the few events that command global attention, the death of a Pope and the election of another stands out in a class of its own. Even if you are not a Christian, there is an aura around an elected Pope that sends a subtle message that peace in the world is achievable.
I was too young to have a vivid account of the death of Pope John Paul I and the election of Pope John Paul II in 1978 but I remember vividly the death of Pope John Paul II and the election of Pope Benedict XVI in 2005.
Many had thought that the job of a Pontiff is a lifelong contract until Pope Benedict announced his resignation in 2013 due to frail body and lack of strength of mind. Then came the election of Pope Francis who served as the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign head of the Vatican City from 2013 until his transition in April 2025.
I always admire the process that leads to the election of a new Pope. The shielding of the conclave from outward interference is instructive. The suspense occasioned by the black smoke-white smoke phenomenon is fascinating. That pundits are usually proved wrong in their predictions elevates the process beyond the physical to the spiritual.
The wide acceptability and the respect accorded the choice of The Cardinals when they choose one among the equals to lead the church and the way the world waits with bated breath to see the new Pontiff unveiled at the Balcony of St Peter’s Basilica sends a strong message that if we all see this world as a stage, we can achieve peace, devoid of needless strifes and struggles.
The Catholics have a new head, he is Pope Leo XVI. The choice of the new Pope beat the prediction of pundits. The white smoke billowed earlier than pundits expected. The smiles and softness of the new Pope signals hope and peace to the world.
A lot has happened in the world. America has seen a president of African descent. The United Kingdom has had a man of colour at the helm. Women have led modern democracies from the west to the east. The world waits till the day the white smoke will billow to unveil a Pope of African descent at the balcony of St. Peter Basilica.
Congratulations to the Catholic Church. Congratulations to the body of Christ and congratulations to the world.
Habemus Papam (We have a Pope)
©️Akin Oluwadare Jnr
12 May 2025
