Dr Bilawal Kamran
The death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, has left the Catholic Church facing a pivotal moment in its history. As the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, his passing marks the end of an era characterized by progressive reforms and a focus on social justice. The upcoming conclave to elect his successor is poised to be a defining event, not only for the Church but also for its 1.4 billion followers worldwide.
The Conclave: A Turning Point for the Catholic Church
The conclave, the assembly of cardinals convened to elect a new pope, is set to take place in the Sistine Chapel. This process is shrouded in secrecy and tradition, with cardinals deliberating and voting until a two-thirds majority is reached. Notably, this conclave will be influenced by Pope Francis’s appointments, as he appointed 80% of the current cardinals. This composition suggests a diverse and globally representative electorate, with fewer than half of the voting cardinals being European—a first in Church history.
Leading Contenders for the Papacy
1. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
At 70, Cardinal Pietro Parolin serves as the Vatican’s Secretary of State and has been a close collaborator of Pope Francis. His diplomatic experience and moderate approach position him as a potential successor. Parolin’s tenure has seen him navigate complex international relations, including engagements in Nigeria and Mexico. While he is seen as a continuation of Francis’s legacy, his views on certain issues, such as same-sex marriage, have sparked debate. He has described the legalization of same-sex marriage as a “defeat for humanity.”
2. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
Known as the “Asian Francis,” Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is a 67-year-old Filipino prelate with a strong pastoral background. His focus on social justice and compassion for marginalized communities aligns with the values of Pope Francis. Tagle has been vocal about the Church’s treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals, divorced Catholics, and single mothers, advocating for a more inclusive approach. His election would mark a historic moment as the first Asian pope.
3. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of Congo)
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, 65, is a prominent African voice within the Church. As the Archbishop of Kinshasa and President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar, he represents the growing influence of African Catholicism. Ambongo has taken conservative stances on issues like same-sex marriage and has been a critic of certain reforms introduced by Pope Francis. His election would signify a shift towards a more traditionalist direction for the Church.
4. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76, was the first Ghanaian cardinal and has held significant positions within the Vatican, including leading the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. He is known for his advocacy on social issues and his calls for greater attention to the needs of the poor. However, his past remarks on topics like the spread of Islam in Europe have drawn controversy. Despite these challenges, Turkson remains a respected figure within the Church.
5. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, 69, is the Archbishop of Bologna and has been involved in peace efforts, including missions to Russia and Ukraine. His background in diplomacy and commitment to social justice make him a moderate candidate. Zuppi’s election would continue the Church’s focus on dialogue and reconciliation, reflecting the values upheld by Pope Francis.
Global Implications of the Next Pope’s Election
The choice of the next pope will have profound implications for the Catholic Church and its followers worldwide. A shift towards a more conservative leader could impact the Church’s stance on issues like LGBTQ+ rights, the role of women, and interfaith relations. Conversely, the election of a progressive pope could continue the reforms initiated by Pope Francis, emphasizing inclusivity and social justice.
The diverse backgrounds of the leading candidates reflect the global nature of the Church. With cardinals from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, the conclave is set to be a representation of the Church’s worldwide community. This diversity could influence the direction the Church takes in addressing contemporary challenges and engaging with its followers.
As the Catholic Church prepares for the conclave to elect a new pope, the world watches closely. The decision will not only determine the future leadership of the Church but also signal its stance on critical issues facing society today. Whether the next pope continues the legacy of Pope Francis or ushers in a new direction, the conclave represents a pivotal moment in the history of the Catholic Church.
