the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Newark NJ, a 2023-24 Pew Research Center study revealed that 33% of adults in New Jersey identify as Catholic, while 59% practice a Christian denomination overall. This marks a steady decline from past years: in 2014, 67% of New Jersey adults identified as Christian (34% Catholic), and in 2007, 76% identified as Christian with 42% Catholic.
Today, 12% of New Jerseyans belong to other religions, while 27% are religiously unaffiliated—highlighting the shifting religious landscape in the Garden State.
Yet, amid these changes, one New Jersey figure remains a major presence on the global Catholic stage: Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin.
Cardinal Tobin: From Newark to the Global Stage
Cardinal Tobin’s rise has been remarkable. Once a “shock pick” for cardinal in 2016 while still Archbishop of Indianapolis, his appointment reflected his close relationship with Pope Francis, extensive experience in Rome, multilingual abilities, and a shared vision of an inclusive Church focused on society’s marginalized.
Tobin, now 72 years old, leads the Archdiocese of Newark, home to 1.3 million Catholics across Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Union counties. His work with immigrants, LGBTQ+ Catholics, and his progressive stances have positioned him as one of the more liberal voices within the Church’s hierarchy.
Could this popular New Jersey cardinal become the next pope?
Could an American Become Pope?
While an American pope has long been considered unlikely, recent history shows it’s not impossible. The 2013 conclave saw Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston considered a serious contender before Pope Francis’s election. However, experts argue that global demographics still work against an American pontiff: Americans make up less than 10% of the Catholic population and the College of Cardinals.
Dugan McGinley, a Rutgers religion professor, notes that “the demographics are not pointing in the direction of an American pope.” Growth in Catholicism is now centered in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, not the United States.
Nevertheless, Cardinal Tobin’s influence in the conclave could be significant. As a close ally of Pope Francis, Tobin could play a major role in choosing the next pontiff, likely favoring a progressive and inclusive candidate.
Cardinal Tobin’s Unique Strengths
Beyond his pastoral work, Tobin’s personal qualities set him apart:
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Fluent in five languages: Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, and English
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Former Redemptorist leader: Ran a global missionary order with over 6,000 members
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Advocate for immigrants: Criticized former President Trump’s immigration policies
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Supporter of LGBTQ+ Catholics: Welcomed LGBTQ+ communities into parishes
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Fitness and culinary enthusiast: Known for weightlifting and making a famous spaghetti al pesto
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Honest about personal struggles: Has openly discussed overcoming alcoholism
His broad experience, from local parishes in Michigan to the Vatican’s highest offices, and his approachable personality resonate with many Catholics seeking a leader of compassion and strength.
Challenges and Controversies
Tobin’s tenure hasn’t been without controversy. He led the Newark Archdiocese through the fallout of the Cardinal Theodore McCarrick abuse scandal, meeting survivors and protesters. Acknowledging the crisis, Tobin candidly said the Church’s credibility was “shot” but stressed the need for transparency and healing.
Despite challenges, his commitment to reform and openness remains a cornerstone of his leadership.
Final Thoughts: A Symbolic Leader for a Changing Church
Though the odds of Cardinal Tobin ascending to the papacy are slim, his potential to influence the selection of the next pope is considerable. His emphasis on immigration, inclusion, and mercy over judgment aligns with the direction Pope Francis charted for the Church.
For New Jersey Catholics, immigrants, and marginalized groups, the idea of Tobin at the helm of the global Church would be nothing short of historic—a true “Super Bowl victory” for the Garden State.
As the world watches the future of the Catholic Church unfold, Cardinal Tobin’s voice will undoubtedly be one to watch.
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