Contenders for the Papacy: The Cardinals Poised to Lead the Catholic Church into Its Next Chapter
With the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the Roman Catholic Church stands at a critical juncture. As the global community of over 1.3 billion Catholics mourns the loss of a transformative leader, the eyes of the world now turn to the Vatican, where preparations are underway for the next papal conclave. This pivotal gathering of 135 cardinal electors will decide not just who becomes the next pope, but the direction the Church will take in the years ahead.
Pope Francis’s tenure was marked by progressive reforms, outreach to marginalized communities, interfaith dialogue, and a focus on global issues such as climate change and economic inequality. Yet, his leadership also faced resistance from traditionalists wary of rapid change. The upcoming conclave presents a unique opportunity to either reinforce Francis’s legacy or steer the Church towards a more conservative path. Several cardinals have emerged as frontrunners in the race for the papacy, each representing different theological, cultural, and regional perspectives within the global Catholic community.
1. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
As the Vatican’s current Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin stands as a seasoned diplomat and a key figure within the Church hierarchy. Born in Italy, Parolin has long been involved in Vatican diplomacy, working on complex international negotiations and representing the Holy See in global affairs. His expertise in governance and international relations makes him a favored candidate among those seeking continuity in administrative leadership and diplomatic engagement.
Parolin’s moderate stance could appeal to a wide spectrum of cardinals, including those who support many of Francis’s reforms but also desire a leader capable of steadying the Vatican’s internal operations. His deep understanding of global politics and his connections across various sectors of the Church could position him as a unifying figure capable of bridging divides within the Catholic community.
2. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
Hailing from the Philippines, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is seen as a leading voice from the global south, a region that now houses the majority of the world’s Catholic population. Often referred to as a “Francis favorite,” Tagle shares many of the late pope’s progressive views, particularly in the areas of social justice, poverty alleviation, and inclusivity. His ability to connect with the laity and his focus on pastoral care resonate deeply in developing nations where the Church plays a critical social role.
Tagle’s election would signal a continued commitment to Francis’s global vision, particularly in championing the needs of marginalized communities and strengthening the Church’s presence in Asia and Africa. However, some traditionalists within the conclave may view his progressive leanings as a continuation of policies they find too liberal.
3. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
Another prominent Italian contender is Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, the Archbishop of Bologna. Known for his work in peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts, Zuppi represents the liberal wing of the Church. His inclusive leadership style, commitment to social outreach, and focus on marginalized populations have earned him comparisons to Pope Francis.
Zuppi’s advocacy for dialogue, whether within the Church or between religious communities, positions him as a potential reformer who could expand upon Francis’s initiatives. His election would likely signify the Vatican’s willingness to further embrace progressive values, though it may deepen rifts with conservative factions seeking a return to traditional doctrine.
4. Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary)
In contrast to the more liberal candidates, Cardinal Péter Erdő of Hungary stands as a beacon for conservative voices within the Church. A theologian and canon lawyer, Erdő has built a reputation for intellectual rigor and adherence to orthodox teachings. His leadership in the European Church, particularly in Eastern Europe, appeals to those who desire a papacy grounded in doctrinal clarity and resistance to sweeping reforms.
Erdő’s election would mark a significant shift away from Francis’s progressive agenda, signaling a possible reemphasis on traditional Catholic teachings and liturgical practices. For conservatives wary of the Church’s recent direction, Erdő represents a return to familiar theological ground.
5. Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea)
Perhaps the most prominent conservative contender is Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea. A staunch defender of traditional Catholic doctrine and liturgy, Sarah is known for his outspoken critiques of modern secularism and progressive shifts within the Church. His emphasis on silence, contemplation, and the centrality of the Eucharist resonates with those seeking a spiritual re-centering of Catholicism.
Sarah’s candidacy is championed by traditionalists who view him as the antidote to what they perceive as an erosion of orthodoxy under Francis. His election would likely lead to a reassertion of conservative values, including a reaffirmation of traditional family teachings and liturgical practices.
6. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
Cardinal Peter Turkson, from Ghana, brings a unique blend of progressive social views and traditional doctrinal positions. Throughout his career, Turkson has advocated for human rights, social justice, and environmental stewardship, aligning with many of Francis’s key priorities. His African heritage and commitment to global issues would make his election a historic moment as the first African pope in modern history.
Turkson’s balanced approach could appeal to a wide range of cardinal electors, offering a synthesis of continuity and renewal. His leadership would emphasize the growing influence of the African Church and could steer the Vatican’s focus toward issues impacting the global south.
7. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy)
As the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa brings extensive experience in interfaith dialogue and diplomacy in one of the world’s most religiously complex regions. His work fostering relationships between Christians, Muslims, and Jews could prove invaluable as the Church seeks to navigate global religious tensions.
Pizzaballa is seen as a candidate who could bridge divides within the Church while maintaining a commitment to Francis’s vision of dialogue and outreach. His election would highlight the Vatican’s role as a peacemaker in global affairs, though he remains a lesser-known figure compared to other frontrunners.
8. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of Congo)
From the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu has emerged as a vocal advocate for social justice, environmental protection, and the rights of marginalized populations. His leadership in Africa’s most populous Catholic country speaks to the continent’s rising influence within the global Church.
Ambongo’s alignment with Francis’s focus on social and environmental issues positions him as a progressive voice who could amplify the concerns of the global south. His election would also further cement Africa’s critical role in the Church’s future.
9. Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (France)
French Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline is known for his theological scholarship and dedication to interfaith dialogue. A moderate figure, Aveline is seen as a potential compromise candidate, capable of appealing to both progressive and conservative factions within the conclave. His focus on theological education and dialogue with non-Christian faiths aligns with Francis’s broader vision, but his balanced approach could also soothe concerns among more traditional cardinals.
10. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)
As the Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, Cardinal Mario Grech of Malta has played a central role in promoting synodality—a more participatory, inclusive approach to Church governance. Grech’s commitment to listening to the laity and fostering collaborative decision-making aligns closely with Francis’s pastoral philosophy.
Grech’s election would likely signify a continuation of efforts to democratize the Church’s internal processes, encouraging greater involvement from bishops and laypeople alike.
A Defining Moment for the Catholic Church
The upcoming conclave represents a defining moment in the Catholic Church’s history. With 135 cardinal electors—approximately 80% of whom were appointed by Pope Francis—the selection of the next pope is likely to reflect a balance between continuity and change. The contenders range from staunch conservatives to progressive reformers, each bringing unique perspectives on how best to lead the Church into the future.
Whether the conclave chooses to continue Pope Francis’s progressive trajectory or opts for a more traditionalist path, the next pope will face the monumental task of guiding the Catholic Church through a rapidly changing world, marked by secularization, interfaith tensions, and global challenges such as climate change and inequality. The decision made in the coming weeks will not only shape the future of Catholicism but will also impact global religious, political, and social landscapes for years to come.
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