- By Shivangi Sharma
- Mon, 21 Apr 2025 03:33 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Pope Francis News: Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a transformative figure in the modern Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. Just hours before his death on Easter Monday, he made a final public appearance, waving to over 35,000 faithful from his popemobile in St. Peter’s Square. His death follows a prolonged battle with double pneumonia, which had recently worsened and ultimately claimed his life.
Francis’s passing marks the end of a deeply influential papacy—one defined by humility, progressive reforms, and a global approach to leadership. As the Church mourns its spiritual head, attention now turns to the future: who will take up the mantle and guide the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics through the next chapter?
The College of Cardinals will soon convene in a conclave to elect the next pope. Among the most discussed contenders are figures representing both continuity with Francis’s legacy and a return to more conservative traditions. Here's a look at some of the leading candidates.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin: The Diplomatic Favorite
Perhaps the leading contender is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, who currently serves as the Vatican’s Secretary of State. Known for his deep experience within the Holy See, Parolin is a skilled diplomat and administrator. He has played a major role in delicate negotiations with countries like China and Iran and is respected for his steady hand in church affairs. His close working relationship with Pope Francis and moderate theological stance make him a strong possibility for the papacy.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi: The Peace-Maker
Another major contender is Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, 69, who leads the Italian Episcopal Conference. A close ally of Pope Francis, Zuppi is known for his progressive views and commitment to global peace missions, particularly in conflict zones such as Ukraine and the US. His support for inclusion and pastoral care reflects the compassionate tone set by the current pope. His appeal lies in continuing Francis’s legacy with a more diplomatic approach to internal church reforms.
Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke: The Conservative Challenger
In contrast to Zuppi, Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke, an American prelate, stands as a vocal critic of Francis’s reforms. Burke, known for his strong traditionalist stance, has opposed the idea of divorced and remarried Catholics receiving the Eucharist, a move Francis has cautiously supported. At 75, Burke represents a shift back toward doctrinal rigidity and would likely steer the Church in a more conservative direction.
Cardinal Peter Erdo: Voice of European Conservatism
Cardinal Peter Erdo, 72, from Hungary, is another influential conservative candidate. He shares many of Burke's views, including opposition to communion for remarried Catholics. He has also made headlines for controversial comparisons between refugee intake and human trafficking, signaling a more nationalistic tone. His election would likely align the Vatican more closely with traditionalist factions in Eastern Europe.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle: The Asian Hope
Finally, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, of the Philippines, could become the first Asian pope. As pro-prefect for evangelisation, Tagle is a known progressive with a global vision, often described as Francis's spiritual son. His election would symbolise a shift toward the Global South and could energise the Catholic Church in Asia and beyond.
