Luis Antonio Tagle, a cardinal from the Philippines mentioned as a candidate for the next pope, is facing criticism from conservative Catholic groups for singing John Lennon’s "Imagine" six years ago.
According to the Italian daily newspaper Corriere della Sera on the 1st, a video of Tagle singing "Imagine" in 2019 is gaining attention on social media.
In this regard, the conservative Canadian Catholic media "LifeSiteNews" recently posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying, "It’s shocking: Cardinal Tagle sang John Lennon’s 'Imagine.' Is this a betrayal of Catholic doctrine? This song is an atheistic anthem denying religion, heaven, and the kingship of Christ."
"Imagine" includes the line "imagine there’s no heaven." LifeSiteNews claims that the lyrics of "Imagine" are anti-Christian based on this. The outlet has been opposed to abortion and critical of Pope Francis.
Corriere della Sera reported that Cardinal Tagle did not sing the controversial lyrics. It also explained that some parts of the lyrics were deliberately omitted in the video of Tagle singing "Imagine."
Cardinal Tagle is evaluated as having qualities similar to Pope Francis, such as humor, humility, and a progressive nature. Pope Francis faced backlash from Catholic conservatives for allowing blessings for priests’ same-sex couples. Tagle has argued that the Church should reconsider its past 'harsh' stance toward homosexuals, divorced individuals, and single mothers.
The conclave to elect a new pope following the death of Pope Francis on the 21st is set to begin on the 7th of next month.