In a recent interview with CNA, Cardinal-elect Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi, the archbishop of Tokyo, shared his insights on the qualities he believes the next pope should possess. As he prepares for the possibility of participating in a future papal conclave, Kikuchi emphasized the importance of continuing the policies established by Pope Francis.
“If a conclave happens soon, we need someone to continue the synodal approach that Pope Francis initiated. If the new pope has a different agenda, all our efforts could be in vain,” Kikuchi stated.
Navigating Relationships with Fellow Cardinals
Currently in Rome for the Synod on Synodality, Kikuchi noted that a significant challenge for newly appointed cardinals—who hail from diverse locations like Tehran, Turin, and Toronto—is to familiarize themselves with the upcoming 140 voting members of the College of Cardinals.
“I went through the website to learn the names of cardinals under 80, those eligible to vote in a conclave. While I know some, many are unfamiliar to me,” he remarked. He emphasized the importance of building relationships with senior cardinals to better understand their perspectives and capabilities.
The Growing Influence of Asian Cardinals
Pope Francis has notably increased the number of cardinal-electors from Asia during his tenure, raising their number from nine in 2013 to 22 after the upcoming consistory. Kikuchi acknowledged this shift, noting, “Among Asian cardinals, we tend to know each other well, thanks to meetings like those of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences.”
As the president of Caritas Internationalis, Kikuchi has met many global bishops, yet he expressed a desire to deepen his understanding of them.
Fostering Collaboration Among Global Bishops
The current synod assembly in Rome offered an opportunity for leaders from bishops’ conferences across Asia, Africa, and Latin America to connect. Kikuchi hopes that such collaborations will foster stronger relationships among these federations, referring to them collectively as the Global South bishops’ conferences.
A Missionary Heart for China
Kikuchi is one of several new cardinals selected by Pope Francis who belong to religious congregations. As a member of the Society of the Divine Word, founded to evangelize in China, he was inspired by the story of Cardinal Thomas Tien Ken-sin, the first Chinese cardinal. Tien’s commitment to his faith amid political turmoil left a lasting impression on Kikuchi during his minor seminary years.
Having served as a missionary in Ghana for eight years, Kikuchi now oversees a diverse community in Tokyo, including many Catholics from mainland China. He noted the importance of sharing their struggles and faith-building efforts in their homeland.
Addressing Challenges in China
On the topic of the Vatican’s provisional agreement with Beijing regarding bishop appointments, Kikuchi highlighted the need for clearer diocesan boundaries. He pointed out that the current dioceses in China do not reflect historical boundaries established before the Communist regime.
“Officially, the current dioceses do not represent the real dioceses, which date back to before Communist China,” he explained.
Kikuchi also addressed the Holy See’s diplomatic relationship with Taiwan, stating that its future will significantly impact the Church in the region.
Evangelizing in Secular Japan
With 42,000 Filipinos residing in Tokyo, Kikuchi views their presence as a vital opportunity for evangelization in an increasingly secular Japan. He recalled a visit from Cardinal Tagle, who encouraged Filipinos to see their mission in Japan as part of a divine plan to share the Gospel.
“You may have your own reasons for being here, but it is God’s plan to spread the good news to Japanese society,” Kikuchi concluded.
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