As the Catholic Church prepares for a future without Pope Francis, a sacred and secretive process looms: the election of the next pope. With over 1.4 billion baptized Roman Catholics worldwide, this decision will ripple far beyond the walls of the Vatican, potentially reshaping the Church’s spiritual and geopolitical direction.
What makes this upcoming conclave especially intriguing is its unpredictability. While past papal elections have often leaned toward Europe, particularly Italy, this time the winds of change are blowing in new directions. With 80% of the current cardinal-electors appointed by Pope Francis himself—many from outside Europe—the next pope may well come from Asia or Africa for the first time in modern history.
Below, we explore four leading contenders who have emerged from the Vatican’s intricate web of faith, tradition, and global influence.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin – The Diplomatic Italian Insider
Nationality: Italian | Age: 70
As the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Parolin has been Pope Francis’ closest advisor and the Church’s top diplomat. With his soft-spoken demeanor and deep knowledge of Church governance, he’s viewed by many as the frontrunner. But Parolin’s critics argue that his diplomatic focus could weaken doctrinal integrity.
He’s known for his conservative views on issues like same-sex marriage, which he once called a “defeat for humanity” in response to Ireland’s legalization referendum. Yet, his globalist outlook and administrative experience could appeal to a Church grappling with change. Still, an old Roman adage serves as a cautionary reminder: “He who enters a conclave as a pope, leaves it as a cardinal.”
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle – The “Asian Francis”
Nationality: Filipino | Age: 67
Charismatic, compassionate, and pastoral, Cardinal Tagle represents the vibrant Catholic Church in Asia. Hailing from the Philippines—where roughly 80% of the population is Catholic—Tagle has long been viewed as a potential future pope.
Dubbed the “Asian Francis,” he champions social justice and the plight of migrants. While he holds to Church teachings on abortion and euthanasia, he has shown openness in addressing marginalized groups, once urging the Church to soften its stance toward single mothers, gay people, and divorcees.
Could the Catholic world witness its first Asian pope? Tagle’s supporters hope so.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu – The Fierce Defender of Faith
Nationality: Congolese | Age: 65
With Catholicism booming in Africa, many eyes have turned to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Cardinal Ambongo has served as Archbishop of Kinshasa. A cultural conservative and outspoken opponent of same-sex marriage, he has emerged as a strong candidate from a continent where faith is growing fast—even amid persecution.
Ambongo has also voiced support for interfaith dialogue, urging peaceful coexistence among religious communities. However, some cardinals may question whether this pluralistic outlook aligns with a Church that seeks to evangelize globally.
Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson – The Voice of Ghana
Nationality: Ghanaian | Age: 76
Once a favorite in the 2013 conclave that elected Francis, Cardinal Turkson remains a compelling figure. Known for his dynamic personality and once a member of a funk band, Turkson offers both gravitas and relatability.
He is conservative on core Catholic values but progressive in some social areas—such as his opposition to criminalizing homosexuality, a bold stance in his native Ghana. With decades of service and a calm yet confident presence, Turkson could become the first African pope in 1,500 years.
The Unpredictable Road Ahead
In a historic shift, fewer than half of the electors in the upcoming conclave are European, and none of the candidates represent a straightforward choice. The College of Cardinals will gather within the hallowed walls of the Sistine Chapel, cast their ballots in solemn secrecy, and wait for white smoke to signal the Church’s new shepherd.
Whether the next pope comes from Rome, Manila, Kinshasa, or Accra, one thing is clear: the Catholic Church stands at a turning point. The world is watching. And the Spirit, as always, moves in mysterious ways.
Reference
Who Will Be the Next Pope? Four Front-Runners in an Unpredictable Conclave