Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala
Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, South Sudan
As a Catholic Bishop who has served under the pontificate of Pope Francis, and as someone working in South Sudan—a country he loved deeply—I am profoundly moved by the news of his passing. Like so many around the world whose lives he touched, I feel the weight of this loss personally and spiritually.
Regarding the future leadership of the Church, whether the next Pope should be African is not for me to decide—it is a matter of divine discernment. God, who sees the heart and the needs of His Church, will surely guide us. For now, we remain prayerful and united in hope.
Response to anyone’s Questions
1. How did you receive the news of the death of the Holy Father?
I received the news with deep sorrow. It felt like losing a spiritual father, a moral compass, and a voice for the voiceless. I was in quiet prayer when the message reached me, and I immediately offered a Mass for his soul.
2. What memories do you hold of Pope Francis, particularly regarding his efforts on Africa?
Pope Francis had a heart for Africa. His concern for peace, justice, and human dignity resonated across the continent. I recall with great affection his historic visit to South Sudan and the DRC. His symbolic act of kissing the feet of our political leaders in Rome in 2019 was unforgettable—it spoke volumes about humility and the urgent need for reconciliation.
3. Were there any issues over which the Church in Africa disagreed with Francis?
As with any pontificate, there were moments of tension—not disagreement in the sense of opposition, but rather in cultural interpretation. Some African bishops felt that discussions on topics like sexuality and family needed more grounding in the lived realities of our cultures. Pope Francis, however, always encouraged dialogue and synodality, which allowed these voices to be heard.
4. What profile would you want to see in the new Pope? Should he differ from Francis?
I would hope for a Pope who continues the path of inclusiveness, humility, and missionary zeal. The Church needs a shepherd who can listen deeply, unite the faithful globally, and continue to bring the Church to the margins, as Francis did. Each Pope brings his unique gifts, and that diversity is a blessing.
5. Do you think it is time for an African Pope?
If it is God’s will, then yes. Africa is vibrant in faith and youthful in spirit. A Pope from Africa could bring fresh perspectives rooted in the realities of the Global South. But ultimately, we trust the Holy Spirit to guide the Church in choosing the shepherd we need now.
