Who Will Be the Next Pope? A Look at the Leading Contenders to Succeed Francis.
As the Catholic Church looks ahead to life after Pope Francis, speculation swirls around who might become the next Bishop of Rome. The choice of a new pope is always a deeply secretive and spiritual process, with outcomes often defying predictions—just as few foresaw the rise of Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 2013.
Today, eyes are on a diverse group of cardinals from across the globe, each representing a different vision for the Church’s future—whether it’s continuity, reform, or a return to tradition.
Pietro Parolin, 70, Italy
Currently serving as the Vatican’s secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin is seen by many as the most logical “continuity candidate.” A diplomatic heavyweight, Parolin has been at the forefront of the Church’s foreign affairs since 2013. His role in the Vatican’s controversial 2018 agreement with China drew both praise and criticism. Admirers see him as “a courageous idealist and avid proponent of peace,” while detractors accuse him of compromising doctrine for diplomacy.
Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, Philippines
Once considered a frontrunner and Francis’s spiritual heir, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle remains a powerful contender. As the former archbishop of Manila, he would become the first Asian pope—a significant nod to the region with the fastest-growing Catholic population. Tagle has pushed for a softer stance toward divorced and gay couples, while holding firm on issues like abortion. Though he appears to have lost some traction recently, many still see him as a symbol of global inclusion.
Peter Turkson, 76, Ghana
A long-respected voice in Vatican circles, Cardinal Peter Turkson would be the first black pope in centuries. Known for championing climate justice, economic fairness, and human dignity, Turkson blends a traditional Catholic worldview with a keen awareness of modern social issues. He has called out corruption and spoken against harsh anti-LGBTQ laws in Africa, signaling a nuanced understanding of global realities.
Péter Erdő, 72, Hungary
Representing a clear conservative shift, Cardinal Péter Erdő is viewed as the intellectual standard-bearer of traditional Catholic doctrine. As a former favorite of the late Cardinal George Pell, Erdő could restore a more hierarchical, legalistic tone to Church leadership. His alignment with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán during the refugee crisis in 2015 revealed his resistance to Francis’s open-arms approach on migration.
Matteo Zuppi, 69, Italy
Progressive yet pragmatic, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi is widely seen as a compassionate reformer in the mold of Francis. Appointed in 2019, he’s worked as the Vatican’s peace envoy in Ukraine, meeting both Patriarch Kirill and President Zelenskyy. Zuppi advocates for the poor, marginalized, and same-sex couples—although his views remain within the Church's doctrinal framework.
José Tolentino Calaça de Mendonça, 59, Portugal
The youngest among the main contenders, Cardinal Tolentino is a theologian and poet with a modern sensibility. His age may be a drawback to some, fearing a long papacy that could delay future opportunities. Still, his progressive alliances and cultural openness have drawn attention. His ties to feminist and LGBTQ-affirming voices within the Church show a willingness to engage with modern movements.
Mario Grech, 68, Malta
Cardinal Mario Grech has undergone a notable ideological transformation. Initially conservative, he has embraced more progressive views under Francis’s influence, including his support for female deacons and criticism of anti-migrant policies in Europe. His supporters point to his adaptability as a sign of spiritual growth and openness.
Pierbattista Pizzaballa, 60, Italy
As the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pizzaballa has become a powerful symbol of peacemaking. Following the October 2023 Hamas attack, he offered himself as a hostage in place of Israeli children. His quiet diplomacy and willingness to take personal risks have garnered admiration, though his views on major social issues remain largely unknown.
Robert Sarah, 79, Guinea
Perhaps the most ideologically rigid among the contenders, Cardinal Robert Sarah is a staunch conservative. He has denounced “gender ideology” and Islamic extremism, and famously co-authored a 2020 book defending clerical celibacy—a move seen by some as defiance against Pope Francis. Sarah’s ascension would mark a dramatic return to traditionalism.
A Bittersweet Farewell and a Prayer for the Future
The death of Pope Francis marks the end of an era defined by compassion, humility, and a determined push to bring the Catholic Church closer to the world it serves. His efforts to champion the poor, embrace the marginalized, and open dialogue with people of all backgrounds won him admiration far beyond Catholic circles. As the conclave prepares to choose his successor, the Church faces a defining moment: to look back toward rigidity, or forward with grace. Whoever is chosen, the hope remains that they will carry Pope Francis’s torch—guiding the Church with the same love, courage, and commitment to a truly inclusive 21st century faith.
