The article centers on Cardinal Robert Sarah, a potential candidate for the next Pope. He is described as a prominent figure among conservative Catholics and the far-right, but viewed as a threat by progressive European politicians due to his stance on issues such as Muslim immigration and what he perceives as moral decay in the West.
Lars Barstad Løvold, deputy leader of the Norwegian youth party FpU and a Catholic, supports Sarah's conservative views, particularly his strong opposition to radical Islam. Conversely, Professor Eivor Oftestad, a Catholic professor of Christian history, warns against Sarah's rhetoric, believing it could exacerbate existing divisions in Europe.
The article highlights Sarah's controversial statements, including his assertion that Europe is self-destructing by allowing Muslim immigration and his criticism of using the concept of human dignity to justify accepting immigrants and refugees. These views resonate with Christian conservatives on social media.
Løvold argues that Pope Francis' liberal stance has politicized religion, while Oftestad expresses concern about using Christian faith to promote political agendas, warning of the risk of secularizing faith. The article also notes that Sarah's views, coming from a Black African cardinal, present a challenge to the progressive narrative.
Løvold uses Sarah's candidacy as a counter-argument to accusations of racism against conservatives, emphasizing that support for Sarah transcends racial considerations and focuses on his values.