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As the Catholic Church enters a new chapter with the passing of Pope Francis, the world turns its attention to the monumental question: who will succeed him? With more than 1.4 billion Catholics waiting for direction, the election of the next pope will have profound consequences.
The process, known as the conclave, will bring together the College of Cardinals, who will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the new pontiff. With Pope Francis having appointed 80% of the cardinals, this is the first conclave in history where the College will represent a truly global Church. Crucially, fewer than half of those voting will come from Europe, giving rise to speculation that this might be the moment for a pope from outside the old continent—perhaps Africa, Asia, or the Americas.
The race is wide open, with cardinals of various leanings and backgrounds in the mix. Will the cardinals opt for someone progressive, like Pope Francis, or return to a more traditional figure to steer the Church’s future? Here’s a closer look at some of the top contenders.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy) – The Diplomat
Age: 70
A longtime Vatican insider, Cardinal Pietro Parolin has served as the Vatican’s Secretary of State, effectively functioning as the pope’s deputy. Known for his diplomatic skills and soft-spoken demeanor, he has managed the Vatican’s global relations with finesse. He’s respected for his ability to balance the Church’s interests across continents and navigate delicate issues with diplomacy rather than confrontation.
While Parolin is seen as a moderate, some critics argue that his approach to Church matters may prioritize global politics over doctrinal purity. He is notably conservative on issues like same-sex marriage, but his supporters believe his focus on diplomacy and unity could serve the Church well in a divided world.
Despite his qualifications, there’s an old Italian saying that haunts papal candidates: “He who enters a conclave as pope leaves it as cardinal.” Italian popes have been the rule, not the exception, but after a 40-year absence, an Italian pope may not be the preferred choice this time.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) – The People’s Pope
Age: 67
Could the next pope be Asian? Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, a pastoral leader beloved by the faithful in the Philippines, has earned the nickname “the Asian Francis.” With decades of experience leading the Church, especially in areas of social justice, migration, and the poor, Tagle embodies the humility and compassion associated with Pope Francis.
Though he has held firm traditional views on issues like abortion, his more progressive stance on LGBTQ+ individuals and divorced people sets him apart from more conservative cardinals. Tagle’s popularity among Filipinos—where Catholicism thrives—could make him a strong contender, particularly if the Asian bloc of cardinals pushes for representation.
Tagle’s humility and ability to connect with the people make him a frontrunner, but whether that will translate to papal votes remains to be seen.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of Congo) – The African Voice
Age: 65
If the conclave looks to Africa for leadership, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo could be the one to carry the torch. As Archbishop of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ambongo is an advocate for the Church’s role in a region struggling with violence and persecution. His firm stance on moral issues, particularly his opposition to same-sex marriage, aligns with many African Catholics’ views, making him a popular choice within that bloc.
Ambongo’s calls for interfaith cooperation and cultural respect have earned him respect in Africa and beyond. However, some may question whether his conservatism aligns with the progressive direction some cardinals might want to see in a new pope.
Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson (Ghana) – The African Candidate
Age: 76
Another strong African contender, Cardinal Peter Turkson has long been considered a potential pope. As the first Ghanaian to be made a cardinal, Turkson’s candidacy brings a new face to the papacy. He is charismatic, well-traveled, and known for his energy and outreach to the poor and marginalized.
Though he has sometimes clashed with more liberal elements of the Church—especially on LGBTQ+ rights—his calls for solidarity among African nations and his condemnation of the criminalization of homosexuality in his home country set him apart. Turkson’s candidacy could signal a fresh, African-led direction for the Church, though his age and past controversies might pose challenges.
Cardinal Peter Erdo (Hungary) – The European Compromise
Age: 72
Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo is another veteran of the Church, known for his role in both European Catholicism and interfaith relations. His conservative views on family and his ability to build bridges within the Church make him a candidate seen as a potential compromise. He is respected among both conservative and moderate factions but doesn’t have the global appeal of some other candidates.
As a potential unifier, Erdo could win support as a steady hand in turbulent times, though his more traditional views might not resonate with a younger, more diverse College of Cardinals.
Cardinal Angelo Scola (Italy) – The Veteran with a Quiet Voice
Age: 83
Cardinal Angelo Scola, once a frontrunner in the 2013 conclave, has resurfaced in discussions as the “elder statesman” candidate. Known for his deep theological insight and focus on age-related issues, Scola may appeal to those seeking stability in a time of transition.
However, his age and focus on topics like old age and the end of life may not align with the Church’s needs for a dynamic, globally engaged pope. His ties to the past may work against him, but his previous candidacy means he’s not entirely out of the picture.
Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea) – The Conservative Candidate
Age: 79
Cardinal Robert Sarah’s name often arises in conservative circles due to his strong adherence to traditional Catholic teachings. He’s a staunch opponent of many of Pope Francis’s reformist stances and advocates for a return to liturgical purity and doctrinal discipline.
Sarah’s influence among traditionalists is undeniable, but his contentious past comments on various issues might make him a polarizing figure for many cardinals. Whether he can unite the Church or deepen divisions will likely play a pivotal role in his candidacy.
Cardinal Michael Czerny (Canada) – The Progressive Jesuit
Age: 78
A Jesuit like Pope Francis, Cardinal Michael Czerny is known for his work on human rights and environmental issues. He has garnered significant support among progressive cardinals due to his commitment to social justice and his dedication to the Church’s outreach to the poor and marginalized.
Although a strong candidate for the next papacy, some may hesitate to elect a second Jesuit pope in a row. However, Czerny’s background in global affairs, particularly in Latin America and Africa, could make him an appealing choice for the Church’s future.
As the conclave approaches, the question of who will be the next pope is filled with uncertainty. From seasoned Vatican insiders to fresh faces from Africa and Asia, the College of Cardinals faces a historic decision that will shape the Church for generations to come. One thing is clear: the next pope will need to navigate a world that is both rapidly changing and deeply rooted in tradition.
