Papal Conclave Nears: 4 Cardinals Emerge as Leading Contenders for the Next Pope
Following the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88, the Roman Catholic Church is preparing for a pivotal moment: the election of its next spiritual leader. The College of Cardinals will convene next week in the Sistine Chapel, where a two-thirds majority is required to elevate a new pope—a decision with profound implications for the future of the Church and its global 1.3 billion followers.
As speculation swirls, four prominent figures have risen to the forefront as likely contenders. Each brings a distinct vision and background, offering a glimpse into the potential directions the Church might take on pressing issues such as gender roles, sexual ethics, liturgical practices, and modernization.
1. Cardinal Luis Tagle: The Evangelical Voice from the Philippines
At 67, Cardinal Luis Tagle could make history as the first Filipino pope. Currently overseeing evangelization efforts as the pro-prefect of a key Vatican department, Tagle is well-known for his deep humility, pastoral tone, and strong ties to Pope Francis.
A former Archbishop of Manila, Tagle has been seen as a progressive ally, though his views on controversial topics are often nuanced or undeclared. He has refrained from taking a clear stance on female deacons and same-sex blessings but has criticized harsh rhetoric toward LGBTQ Catholics and spoken thoughtfully on the challenges of priestly celibacy.
With a reputation for bridge-building and a global perspective shaped by Asia, Tagle could appeal to a Church seeking a more inclusive, outward-facing leadership.
2. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi: Italy’s Social-Minded Shepherd
Heading the Archdiocese of Bologna, 69-year-old Cardinal Matteo Zuppi is another papabile with close ideological ties to Pope Francis. Elevated to the cardinalate in 2019, Zuppi’s leadership has focused on compassion, dialogue, and social justice.
If chosen, Zuppi would be the first Italian pope in nearly five decades, a nod to the Church’s deep-rooted heritage in Rome. Known for his pragmatic yet progressive stance, he may offer continuity with Francis’ legacy while restoring an Italian presence to the papacy.
3. Cardinal Robert Sarah: The Conservative’s Choice
Cardinal Robert Sarah, 79, offers a stark contrast to his fellow contenders. Hailing from Guinea, he would become the first pope from sub-Saharan Africa. His long Vatican tenure and strong emphasis on liturgical tradition have made him a champion among conservative Catholics, especially in the West.
Seen by some as a potential “counter-reform” pope, Sarah has voiced strong opposition to liberalizing trends and is viewed as a candidate who might steer the Church back toward pre-Francis orthodoxy. His age, however, could be a limiting factor in a conclave seeking a longer-term leader.
4. Cardinal Pietro Parolin: The Vatican Insider
At 70, Cardinal Pietro Parolin brings diplomatic clout as the Vatican’s Secretary of State—a role often likened to the Church’s prime minister. A skilled negotiator and central figure in Vatican politics, Parolin has been Francis’ right-hand man in managing global Church affairs.
Parolin’s record suggests a commitment to tradition. He has called the ordination of women “non-negotiable” and lamented the rise of same-sex marriage as a societal failure. Yet his administrative expertise and measured tone could make him a consensus candidate among cardinals seeking stability and continuity.
With the conclave set to begin Wednesday, the global Church awaits its next shepherd—a figure who will shape Catholicism’s path through the complex terrain of the 21st century. Will the cardinals choose a reformer, a traditionalist, or a diplomat? The world watches, and the decision is soon at hand.
