Ethiopian cardinal of Eastern rite, known for his defense of traditional Church values and his pastoral work in a context of religious tensions.
| Criterion | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Moral doctrine | Very conservative |
| Liturgy | Conservative |
| Sociopolitical | Very progressive |
| Relationship with Pope Francis | Moderate |
| Dialogue | Very progressive |
| Communication | Very progressive |
| Overall tendency | Moderate |
Cardinal Souraphiel upholds traditional Catholic moral teachings, including opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage. In 2008, he joined other Ethiopian religious leaders in encouraging lawmakers to outlaw homosexual activity in the country's constitution, calling it 'an infestation.' In 2014, the Catholic Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa, which he heads, issued a statement in support of marriage, stating, 'we strongly condemn same sex unions and other deviations that go against human nature and natural laws.'
As head of the Ethiopian Catholic Church, Cardinal Souraphiel emphasizes the importance of traditional liturgical practices rooted in the Ge'ez rite. He has been instrumental in preserving and promoting the unique liturgical heritage of the Ethiopian Catholic Church.
Cardinal Souraphiel demonstrates a strong commitment to social justice. He has actively engaged in issues related to peace, reconciliation, and social inclusion in Ethiopia, aligning with progressive sociopolitical engagement.
A close collaborator of Pope Francis, Cardinal Souraphiel supports the Pope's reforms and vision for a Church that reaches out to all. He has defended Pope Francis against criticisms and aligns with his emphasis on pastoral care and inclusivity.
Cardinal Souraphiel promotes interreligious dialogue, recognizing its importance in a pluralistic society. He has highlighted the Catholic Church's foundational role in the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia.
Known for his effective communication and pastoral sensitivity, Cardinal Souraphiel emphasizes the need for the Church to engage with modern culture and technology. He advocates for a Church that listens and speaks in ways that resonate with contemporary society.
Myanmar
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Uruguay
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France
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United States
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Myanmar
age: 76
Burmese cardinal, the first from his country, known for his commitment to peace and reconciliation, combining respect for tradition and interreligious dialogue.
Croatia
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Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan cardinal with strong traditionalist positions, known for his attachment to traditional liturgy and defense of Catholic doctrine.
Germany
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Poland
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Germany
German cardinal, former prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, known for his very conservative positions and vigorous defense of traditional doctrine.
Poland
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Germany
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Italy
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United States
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India
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India
Indian cardinal of Syro-Malankara rite, known for his attachment to the Eastern traditions of the Church and his defense of traditional moral doctrine.
Tanzania
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Ivory Coast
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France
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Kenya
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France
French cardinal, Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura, known for his legal expertise and traditional doctrinal positions.
France
French cardinal, Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura, known for his legal expertise and traditional doctrinal positions.
Italy
Italian cardinal, Grand Master of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre, former prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, known for his missionary and diplomatic experience.
United States
American cardinal, known for his conservative positions on doctrine and liturgy, while seeking unity in a divided ecclesial context.
