VATICAN CITY – As the Catholic Church looks to elect a new pope following the passing of Pope Francis, one name has emerged as a likely candidate, Father Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, a Nigerian-born Jesuit and theologian with a distinguished career in both academia and religious leadership.
Born in Benin City, Nigeria, Father Orobator grew up practicing traditional African religion.
His journey into Catholicism began during his teenage years, when he attended an Easter vigil Mass at a local Jesuit parish.
Deeply inspired by the Jesuits’ commitment to serving others, he was drawn to the faith and the Jesuit Order’s principles.
His philosophy resonates with the African concept of Ubuntu, which emphasizes that “a person is a person through other persons.”
Father Orobator joined the Jesuit Order in 1986, two years after starting his college studies in linguistics and African languages. He was ordained as a priest in 1998.
A scholar fluent in four languages, he has amassed an impressive academic background, including a Ph.D. in theology and religious studies from the University of Leeds, an MBA from Georgetown University, and a licentiate in sacred theology from JST-SCU.
He also earned a bachelor’s degree in theology from Hekima University College in Nairobi and a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Institut de Philosophie Saint Pierre Canisius in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Father Orobator has held key leadership positions, including serving as the provincial superior of the Jesuits of the Eastern Africa Province.
His teaching career spans several universities, including Hekima University College, St. Augustine College of South Africa, and Marquette University in the United States.
In addition to his teaching, he has been a prominent figure on the boards of Theological Studies and Georgetown University.
The process, which has remained virtually unchanged for over 800 years, will begin with the preparation for the conclave, where the cardinal electors will gather to choose the new Pope. ynews.digital/newsflash/papa…
An author and editor, Father Orobator has published several influential works.
His books include “Theology Brewed in an African Pot,” “Religion and Faith in Africa: Confessions of an Animist,” and “The Pope and the Pandemic: Lessons in Leadership in a Time of Crisis.”
His writings explore critical issues in Catholicism, African faith, and leadership, and he has contributed to numerous theological journals and edited volumes.
As a member of the editorial board for the journal Marriage, Families & Spirituality, and the co-editor of works such as “Feminist Catholic Theological Ethics: Conversations in the World Church,” Father Orobator has consistently worked to advance dialogue within the global Church.
With his vast experience, academic credentials, and deep commitment to the Church’s mission, Father Agbonkhianmeghe Orobator is considered a strong candidate for the role of the next Pope.
His background offers a fresh perspective to the leadership of the Catholic Church, particularly in the context of its ongoing efforts to address global challenges in faith, culture, and social justice.
