As Pope Francis continues to face serious health challenges at the age of 88, speculation surrounding his successor is mounting. In early February 2025, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis was hospitalized after being diagnosed with double pneumonia. As he battles this condition, many are beginning to turn their attention to the future of the papacy and the selection of the next pope.
Pope Francis has led the Catholic Church since 2013. However, as his health declines, it raises the inevitable question of who will carry the mantle of leadership after him.
The process of electing a new pope is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Church. After the death or resignation of a pope, a conclave is convened where cardinals—those bishops under the age of 80—cast their votes in the Sistine Chapel. The process is secret, and the cardinals are tasked with selecting a successor who will guide the Church for the next papacy. The requirement for a two-thirds majority ensures that the new pope enjoys broad support from the cardinals and reflects the direction they believe the Church should take.
Pope Francis himself made a significant change to the conclave process in 2022 by raising the number of cardinals eligible to vote in a conclave from 120 to 138. This change, part of a broader effort to expand the global representation of the College of Cardinals, reflects the growing influence of the Church outside of Europe.
While any baptized male Catholic can technically be elected pope, in practice, the College of Cardinals has typically chosen one of their own members. Several names have emerged as potential frontrunners for the next papacy.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, Italy
As Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Parolin has become a key figure in the diplomatic efforts of the Holy See. Described as a moderate, Parolin’s career in the Vatican’s diplomatic service makes him a natural choice to continue many of the policies initiated by Pope Francis. He was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2014 and has garnered considerable support, being the favorite among some bookmakers.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, Philippines
Cardinal Tagle, often referred to as the “Asian Pope Francis,” is a popular figure with progressive views on issues. His advocacy for a more inclusive Church, combined with his role in evangelization efforts across the globe, has made him a prominent figure. He was elevated to cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012 and could become the first pope from Asia.
Cardinal Raymond Burke, 76, United States
For those within the Church who favor a more traditionalist approach, Cardinal Burke represents a sharp contrast to Pope Francis. A staunch critic of the current pope’s more liberal policies on divorce and remarriage, Burke is a leading figure among conservatives. He was made a cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010.
Cardinal Peter Turkson, 75, Ghana
Another potential candidate from the Global South, Cardinal Turkson has been a vocal advocate for social justice issues and the dignity of human life. His prominence within the Church’s social teachings makes him a notable figure, especially as the Church continues to experience growth in Africa.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, 69, Italy
As a close confidant of Pope Francis, Cardinal Zuppi has significant backing. His involvement in high-profile diplomatic efforts, such as his peace mission to Ukraine, highlights his influence on the world stage. Zuppi was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2019 and is seen as a potential moderate successor.
The election of the next pope will undoubtedly reflect the direction the Church wants to take, balancing between tradition and adapting to modern challenges. The conclave’s decision will be a momentous one, as the Church continues to confront global issues such as secularism, social justice, and the role of women in the Church.
As the papacy faces uncertain times, one thing remains clear: the cardinals’ choice of the next pope will have profound implications for the future of the Catholic Church, both in the Vatican and around the world.
I pray that the Holy Father gets himself soon amen 🙏🙏🙏
The real leader of the true Catholic Church is Jesus Christ. The leaders of the Novus Ordo/Modernist sect have not been and are not Catholic and whomever their next leader is, unless he recognizes the real leader is Jesus Christ and returns to believing, teaching and preaching the true Catholic faith, the sect, as it is a false religion, will eventually be conquered by Jesus Christ.