As the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica toll in solemn remembrance, the Vatican and the Catholic faithful around the world are mourning the death of Pope Francis.
The 88-year-old pontiff passed away on the morning of April 21, 2025, following a protracted illness that saw him hospitalized multiple times earlier this year for respiratory and kidney complications.
The world is now watching Rome with bated breath as Cardinals gather for the Conclave to choose a new spiritual leader—a process steeped in centuries-old tradition but occurring at a moment when the Church stands on the cusp of possible transformation.
The Legacy of Pope Francis
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Latin American and first Jesuit pope.
His papacy was defined by humility, social justice advocacy, and a progressive tone on contentious issues. Whether championing the rights of migrants, defending the environment, or urging peace in global conflict zones, Francis left an indelible mark on the modern Church.
Even in his final public appearance—on Easter Sunday—he delivered a message of peace, calling for freedom of religion and expression, and expressed sorrow over ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.
His death falls during the Catholic Jubilee Year, a sacred time that sees millions of pilgrims visit the Vatican.
That spiritual atmosphere now gives way to deep reflection and an urgent question: who will take the reins of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics?
Papal Contenders: A Global Cast of Cardinals
This Conclave is widely viewed as potentially ushering in another historic moment: the election of either the first Black pope or the first Asian pope.
Among the frontrunners are names familiar to Vatican observers and fresh faces alike.
Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana, 76)
Long considered a viable papal candidate, Turkson was among the favorites even during the 2013 Conclave.
As former Archbishop of Cape Coast and later a key Vatican official, he represents both deep theological experience and global representation.
Turkson would be the first Black pope. His moderate stance on LGBTQ+ issues and his diplomatic missions—such as serving as a peace envoy to South Sudan—have won him admiration across ideological divides within the Church.
His roots in a rapidly growing African Catholic base may play a pivotal role in his candidacy.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines, 67)
A leading liberal voice, Tagle has gained popularity as a possible first Asian pontiff.
The former Archbishop of Manila, he now holds a key Vatican post as the Pro-Prefect for Evangelization.
He is vocal about the Church’s need for compassion in its outreach, particularly toward divorced couples and LGBTQ+ individuals.
His stance on abortion remains conservative, aligning with Church teachings, but his overall tone signals a more pastoral approach.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy, 70)
Seen as the “continuity candidate,” Parolin served as the Vatican’s Secretary of State under Pope Francis.
While moderate in tone, Parolin’s involvement in the controversial 2018 agreement with China, which gave Beijing influence over bishop appointments, has drawn criticism.
His election would likely signify a preference for administrative stability over reform.
Cardinal Peter Erdő (Hungary, 72)
A strong voice for tradition, Erdő is the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest and a conservative stalwart.
He has consistently opposed communion for divorced and remarried Catholics and champions traditional Church doctrine.
His background in Eastern Europe evokes memories of Pope John Paul II and resistance against communist regimes.
Cardinal Jose Tolentino de Mendonça (Portugal, 59)
The youngest among the serious contenders, Tolentino brings intellectual flair and modern sensibilities.
Hailing from Madeira, the poet and theologian has encouraged scholars to engage with contemporary culture, including film and music.
He represents a potential generational shift in the Church’s leadership.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy, 69)
Zuppi, currently Archbishop of Bologna, rose in visibility after Pope Francis appointed him peace envoy to Ukraine.
Known for his hands-on pastoral work and efforts at interfaith dialogue, Zuppi reflects Francis’s legacy in outreach and diplomacy.
Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta, 68)
As Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, Grech has been instrumental in promoting Pope Francis’s vision of a more participatory and inclusive Church.
While he maintains traditional views on doctrine, his advocacy for new pastoral language around sensitive topics suggests a willingness to build bridges.
Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea, 79)
The oldest in the field, Sarah is a prominent conservative voice from Africa.
A staunch opponent of gender ideology and Islamic fundamentalism, his strong traditionalist views may appeal to some factions within the Conclave, though his age could be a limiting factor.
The Global Church at a Crossroads
The upcoming Conclave marks a pivotal moment for Catholicism.
With growing communities in Africa and Asia, the Church’s demographic future lies outside of Europe.
Electing a pope from these regions could reflect that shift and inspire millions.
At the same time, internal divisions over theology, modernity, and geopolitics present serious challenges.
