Following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, the Catholic Church finds itself at a defining moment as it prepares for a new chapter in leadership. As the first pontiff from Latin America, Francis left a profound legacy, advocating for social justice, environmental responsibility, and a more inclusive Church.
The College of Cardinals will soon assemble at the Vatican for the conclave—an event that will not only elect the next pope to guide the 1.37 billion Catholics worldwide but also shape the Church’s future direction on doctrine, governance, and global engagement.
Among the leading figures being considered are ten high-ranking cardinals from various parts of the world, each reflecting the evolving priorities and global diversity of today’s Church.
From the progressive and charismatic Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines to the seasoned Vatican diplomat Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy, the potential successors offer a wide ideological range—from reform-minded voices to staunch traditionalists.
Notably, Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Turkson stands as a powerful symbol of the Church’s growth in Africa and its increasing focus on issues like economic justice and climate change. His candidacy resonates with those seeking a pope committed to global inclusivity and the social teachings of the Church.
Here are 10 Cardinals Who Could Become the Next Pope:
1. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
Age: 67
- Cardinal-Bishop of San Felice da Cantalice a Centocelle (pro hac vice)
- President, Catholic Biblical Federation
- Grand Chancellor, Pontifical Urbaniana University
- Member of several Roman Curia departments
Profile: A leading progressive figure with pastoral warmth and a close alliance with Pope Francis, Tagle is known for his work in evangelization and inclusion.
2. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
Age: 70
- Vatican Secretary of State since 2013
- Member of the Council of Cardinals since 2014
Profile: A seasoned diplomat and moderate theologian, Parolin is deeply involved in Vatican governance and is seen as a continuity candidate.
3. Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary)
Age: 72
- Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest
- Primate of Hungary
Profile: A respected canon law expert and conservative theologian, Erdő represents the Church’s traditionalist wing.
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4. Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA)
Age: 76
- Former Archbishop of St. Louis
- Former Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura
- Patron of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (2014–2023)
Profile: A vocal critic of Francis, Burke is one of the most recognized traditionalist voices in the Church today.
5. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
Age: 69
- Archbishop of Bologna
Profile: Known for his work with the Sant’Egidio Community, Zuppi is a progressive bridge-builder with a reputation for diplomacy and grassroots engagement.
6. Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk (Netherlands)
Age: 71
- Archbishop of Utrecht
- Background in medicine and moral theology
Profile: A conservative voice, Eijk is a bioethics expert and a strong defender of traditional Church teachings.
7. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)
Age: 68
- Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops
Profile: A central figure in synodal reforms under Pope Francis, Grech is seen as a capable administrator and a thoughtful moderate.
8. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
Age: 76
- Head of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences
- Former Prefect of the Dicastery for Integral Human Development
- Former President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
Profile: A global advocate for social justice, economic equity, and environmental care, Turkson is a prominent African leader with deep pastoral and diplomatic experience.
9. Cardinal Angelo Scola (Italy)
Age: 83 (Not eligible to vote)
- Former Archbishop of Milan
- Former Patriarch of Venice
Profile: A longtime papal contender with a philosophical and theological background, Scola represents the traditional Catholic hierarchy.
10. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy)
Age: 59
- Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem
Profile: With a Franciscan heritage and expertise in interfaith dialogue, Pizzaballa is a rising figure in Middle Eastern Church affairs.
