With the Vatican confirming the death of Pope Francis at age 88, global attention has turned to who will succeed him. Analysts suggest the next pope could come from Africa—a continent experiencing explosive growth in Catholicism. Among the frontrunners is Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana, a seasoned Church leader known for his diplomacy, scholarship, and commitment to justice.
Here are six key facts about Cardinal Turkson and why he’s considered a strong contender:
1. An Impressive Academic Background
Born on October 11, 1948, in Nsuta-Wassaw, Ghana, Turkson holds a license in Sacred Scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome. He also earned master’s degrees in Theology and Divinity from St. Anthony-on-Hudson in New York. His academic achievements have deeply influenced his leadership in both religious and academic spheres.
2. A Distinguished Ecclesiastical Career
Ordained a priest in 1975, Turkson served as Archbishop of Cape Coast from 1992 to 2009. He also led the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference and was a member of the University of Ghana’s Governing Council. His decades of service have made him a respected voice in the global Church.
3. Vatican Leadership and Global Impact
Appointed by Pope Benedict XVI, Turkson became President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace in 2009. Under Pope Francis, he led the new Department for the Service of Integral Human Development, shaping Church policy on global issues like peace, justice, and development.
4. A Skilled Diplomat and Interfaith Leader
Turkson has played key roles in promoting religious and cultural dialogue. He served as General Relator during the 2009 African Synod and was an influential voice in the 2018 Synod for the Pan-Amazon Region. His diplomatic work emphasizes peace, reconciliation, and social justice.
5. Multilingual and Globally Respected
Fluent in Fante, English, French, Italian, German, and Hebrew, Turkson easily connects with diverse Catholic communities worldwide. He’s received numerous honorary degrees in recognition of his contributions to theology and diplomacy.
6. A Central Role in the Church’s Pandemic Response
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Turkson led a Vatican task force under Pope Francis to assess and address the impact on Catholic institutions globally. His leadership helped shape the Church’s humanitarian response to the crisis.
