In brief
Cardinal David, the newly appointed cardinal from Caloocan, Philippines, shares his thoughts on his appointment, his mission to support the urban poor, and the changing landscape of the Catholic Church under the influence of Pope Francis.
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David vividly recalls the surprising news of his appointment as a cardinal, emphasizing the profound impact it has on his humble beginnings as a bishop serving the urban poor in Caloocan, Manila. As he prepares to vote in the conclave alongside two other Filipino cardinals, David reflects on his role over the past five months and aligns with Pope Francis’s mission to reconnect the Church with the people.Having become a champion for the marginalized, especially in the face of the previous administration's controversial drug war, he holds a significant position within the Catholic community. Many Filipinos view the Church as integral to their society, with nearly 80% identifying as Roman Catholic, making it the largest Catholic population in Asia.While backers like Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle are considered leading candidates to replace Pope Francis, challenges for the Church are evident, with increasing opposition to doctrines surrounding family planning and divorce. Cardinal David recalls the immense pressure he faced while advocating for the rights of victims during President Duterte's reign, particularly following the tragic case of Kian Delos Santos.Cardinal David did not shy away from critiquing the drug war, which drew severe backlash and threats against him. His stance was bolstered by backing from Pope Francis, who supported his safety during a private meeting. As the Church adapts to current issues, David asserts the importance of providing moral guidance without overreaching into political governance.The historical context of Catholicism in the Philippines shows an evolution of influence, with the Church no longer holding the sway it did decades ago. Resistance has arisen from within as critical discussions about its role in politics and social issues, such as reproductive health and divorce, have intensified.Cardinal David acknowledges this shift toward a more pragmatic approach while recognizing the challenges of declining mass attendance and damaging scandals. He champions a call for humility within the Church, urging leaders to show their vulnerability in order to regain respect and trust among the faithful.As he steps into the conclave, David's journey from the slums to the papal election signifies a broader narrative reflecting the evolution of the Roman Catholic Church amidst changing societal values and expectations in the Philippines.
