Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, leaving the Roman Catholic Church at a historic crossroads. As the first Latin American pope and a global advocate for the poor and marginalized, his legacy will endure—but the pressing question now is: who will take his place?
The next pope could radically reshape the Catholic Church’s future. Will he continue Francis’s path of reform? Or will the Church pivot back to a more conservative doctrine? With the conclave on the horizon, the world is watching as speculation heats up over who will don the white robes next.
How a New Pope Is Chosen
When a pope dies, the process of choosing his successor begins almost immediately. The College of Cardinals—composed of all cardinals under the age of 80—will gather in Rome to enter the conclave, a secretive, centuries-old process.
Held in the Sistine Chapel, cardinals vote in rounds, requiring a two-thirds majority to elect the new pontiff. Black smoke from the chapel indicates no decision; white smoke signals that a new pope has been chosen. This sacred ritual ensures that the election remains confidential, spiritual, and free of external influence.
A Historic Opportunity
This is more than a routine papal succession—it’s an opportunity for the Church to reflect its changing global face. With Catholicism growing rapidly in Asia and Africa, many are calling for a pope from the Global South.
A Black or Asian pope would mark a seismic shift in a tradition long dominated by European leaders. It would signal a Church more attuned to its diverse flock, potentially igniting a new era of relevance and representation.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle – The Asian Hopeful
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines is a standout contender. At 67, he is youthful by papal standards, deeply charismatic, and known for his alignment with Pope Francis’s progressive ideals.
Currently serving as the Pro-Prefect for the Evangelization of Peoples, Tagle is seen as a spiritual leader who connects with the grassroots. His pastoral style, emotional intelligence, and global experience make him a favorite among reform-minded Catholics.
An Asian pope would be a historic first, representing a continent with over 100 million Catholics and expanding spiritual influence.
Cardinal Peter Turkson – The African Voice for Justice
Cardinal Peter Turkson from Ghana is another strong candidate. At 76, he’s slightly older but highly respected for his intellect and moral clarity. Turkson has been a vocal advocate for climate action, social justice, and economic equality—issues that resonate with Pope Francis’s mission.
His election would make him the first Black pope in modern history. Turkson’s deep experience in the Vatican Curia and reputation for bridge-building across continents give him global appeal.
His papacy would likely prioritize environmental issues and empower the Church in the developing world, especially across Africa.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo – The African Conservative
A younger and rising star is Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo of the Democratic Republic of Congo. At just 65, he already serves as the President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar. He combines pastoral zeal with political savvy.
However, Ambongo has taken a more conservative stance than Francis, especially on LGBTQ+ issues. He recently rejected the Vatican’s approval of blessings for same-sex couples in African countries, reinforcing traditional doctrines.
His election would still mark a historic shift, highlighting the growing prominence of African voices in Catholic leadership.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin – The Vatican Diplomat
Italy’s Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, is a veteran Vatican insider and current Secretary of State. He’s been a central figure in Church diplomacy, negotiating complex agreements with China, Russia, and other world powers.
While Parolin brings institutional knowledge and global connections, his past remarks—such as calling same-sex marriage a “defeat for humanity”—may divide opinion. Still, he remains a top contender, especially among cardinals who prefer a return to traditional European leadership.
Cardinal Raymond Burke – The Conservative Challenger
Cardinal Raymond Burke from the U.S. is a well-known conservative voice and outspoken critic of Pope Francis. At 76, he has built a following among traditionalist Catholics and those seeking a rollback of recent reforms.
Burke’s strong stances on issues like same-sex marriage, abortion, and women’s roles in the Church have earned him support from the right, including endorsements from figures like Donald Trump. However, his divisiveness could make him a long shot in a divided conclave.
