Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle of the Philippines has been a prominent figure in discussions about potential papal candidates, yet he never aspired to be a priest. At 67, he reflects on his feelings of inadequacy regarding leadership, famously stating that he struggles to manage his own life and thus cannot fathom overseeing a global community as the pope. Despite this, he has emerged as a key candidate, embodying a significant shift in the Roman Catholic Church’s focus from Europe to Asia and Africa. If elected, he would not only be the first Asian pope in modern times but also the first pontiff born outside Europe since Francis, marking a historic moment in the Church’s evolution.
Tagle is often referred to as the “Asian Francis,” due to his empathetic approach toward the poor, advocacy against climate change, and criticism of the Church’s strict attitudes toward marginalized communities. However, his tenure has not been without criticism. Activists have pointed out his perceived timidity in addressing issues of clerical sexual abuse, particularly as his profile has risen. Advocacy groups have called for investigations into his handling of abuse cases in various countries, highlighting a growing concern that could hinder his papal prospects.
Under his leadership, the Catholic Church in the Philippines faced significant challenges, including former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial drug war, which resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings. Cardinal Tagle’s critics argue that he failed to take a strong enough stance against these atrocities. Although he did speak against the loss of human life, he did not confront Duterte directly, leading some to question his courage and commitment to social justice, especially at a time when the Church needed strong moral leadership.
In addition to political challenges, Cardinal Tagle’s responses to issues like contraception and clerical sex abuse demonstrate a complex balancing act. While he has opposed laws making contraception more accessible, he seeks to persuade rather than intimidate, which reflects a more diplomatic strategy. His responses to clerical abuse have also been met with mixed reactions. He has often emphasized a compassionate approach that seeks to address the needs of both victims and perpetrators but has been criticized for not taking a strong moral stance against abusers, which some claim could bolster a culture of impunity within the Church.
Born in Manila and originally aspiring to be a doctor, Tagle’s journey into the priesthood began after attending a top Jesuit university. His ordination in 1982 marked the start of a long career that included serving as archbishop of Manila and eventually leading missionary work at the Vatican. His humble beginnings and grassroots connection with the community, such as using public transport, resonate with many Filipinos, contributing to his rich narrative as a compassionate leader.
As he contemplates a potential ascent to the papacy, Tagle frequently grapples with the implications of such a role. He has sought prayers to cope with the overwhelming possibility of being elected pope, reflecting both his humility and the challenges that come with such authority. The intricacies of his leadership style, his past controversies, and the pressures he faces position him at a complex intersection as a potential next leader of the Roman Catholic Church, embodying the hopes and fears of a rapidly changing global faith community.
