Cardinal David: From Humble Bishop to Papal Elector in a Challenging Church Landscape

Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, appointed by Pope Francis, shares his journey from a humble bishop in a diocese to participating in a pivotal conclave, all while advocating for the marginalized amidst a shifting religious climate in the Philippines.

As he prepares to join the conclave in Rome, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David reflects on his unexpected elevation to cardinalhood, a distinction he never imagined for himself as a bishop serving predominantly urban poor communities. Known affectionately as "Apu Ambo," Cardinal David represents a significant shift in the Catholic Church's relationship with the marginalized, embodying the mission of Pope Francis to reconnect the church with its congregation. With nearly 80% of the Philippines' population being Roman Catholic, the country is considered a vital stronghold for the faith.

Cardinal David is among three Filipino cardinals set to partake in the conclave to elect the next pope, with further mention of Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, a prominent papabile and previous contender during the last conclave. Despite facing numerous challenges—including government opposition and moral inquiries—David committed himself to backing those victimized by the drug war initiated by former President Rodrigo Duterte, speaking out against the violence and participating in initiatives for rehabilitation.

His advocacy granted him significant scrutiny, including death threats, but also earned him respect and solidarity from Pope Francis, who provided critical support during David’s tumultuous tenure. The cardinal recounts the heart-wrenching impact of police brutality on his community, noting the tragic case of Kian Delos Santos, a teenager killed amid the drug campaign. His maintenance of a moral high ground amidst pressures highlights the ongoing struggles of the church in an evolving socio-political landscape.

With the Catholic Church losing some influence in the region and facing challenges from newer faith communities and social issues, Cardinal David embraces a vision of the church that is not just a spiritual authority but also a complementary moral force in governance—a position not without contention in the current political environment. As the church navigate its role, struggles over contentious issues like divorce and reproductive rights further expose the diminishing sway of traditional doctrines. Amidst this backdrop of change, David reminds us that humility and vulnerability are essential for the church to regain the trust of its followers.