Meet 10 Cardinals likely to succeed Pope Francis

The death of Pope Francis at the age of 88 has drawn the attention of the world to the selection of a new spiritual leader for the Roman Catholic Church.

The late pope, who had battled several health problems including a recent case of double pneumonia, had already started conversations about who might succeed him long before his passing on Easter Monday.

His death, which came just a day after he was seen greeting worshippers at St. Peter’s Basilica, has now ushered in a solemn period in the Catholic Church called ‘sede vacante’, which means “the seat is vacant” in Latin.

As tradition demands, the College of Cardinals will soon gather inside the Sistine Chapel for a secretive process known as a conclave, where they will elect the next pope.

At the moment, there is no obvious front-runner. However, a number of senior church leaders from around the world, referred to as ‘papabili’ (possible popes), have emerged as potential candidates.

These figures come from different backgrounds and reflect diverse opinions within the Church.

1. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)

Cardinal Parolin, 70, is the current Secretary of State and a skilled Vatican diplomat. Since 2013, he has played a major role in the Church’s global relations.

He is known for being moderate in his beliefs and very diplomatic. Many see him as a calm and balanced leader who understands the Church’s complex responsibilities.

2. Cardinal Peter Erdő (Hungary)

At 72, Cardinal Erdő is known for his conservative views. As Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, he has defended strict traditional teachings, especially on topics like Communion for divorced and remarried Catholics.

His tough stance on immigration has also caught attention, which may appeal to cardinals looking for a return to more traditional leadership.

3. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)

Cardinal Tagle, 67, is seen as a symbol of Pope Francis’s reform efforts. Warm, humble, and deeply pastoral, he has always stood by the poor and excluded.

He currently holds key Vatican roles and also leads the Catholic Biblical Federation. If elected, he would become the first Asian pope in history.

4. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)

At 69, Cardinal Zuppi is widely seen as someone who can carry forward the vision of Pope Francis. He is the Archbishop of Bologna and also leads the Italian Episcopal Conference.

Zuppi has led peace missions and often supports dialogue with the LGBTQ community, making him a likely candidate for those who want to see more inclusion in the Church.

5. Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA)

Cardinal Burke, 76, is a strong conservative voice in the Church. He has been vocal against many recent changes and remains strict on issues like abortion and same-sex relationships.

While controversial, he has a loyal base among traditionalist cardinals who might support his strong doctrinal views.

6. Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk (Netherlands)

Cardinal Eijk, 71, is both a doctor and moral theologian. As Archbishop of Utrecht, he is respected for his deep knowledge and conservative principles.

He became a cardinal in 2012, and though not always in the spotlight, his serious and intellectual style may gain him quiet support.

7. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)

Currently serving as Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, Cardinal Grech has been key in guiding the Church’s effort to be more consultative and inclusive.

His leadership in this synodal process and his support for Church reform make him a strong choice for those who want a more participatory Church.

8. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)

Cardinal Turkson is one of the most respected African leaders in the Church. He has held several high-level roles in the Vatican and now leads the Pontifical Academies of Sciences.

His election would not only mark a major historical moment but would also reflect the growing importance of the Global South in Catholicism.

9. Cardinal Angelo Scola (Italy)

Though retired, Cardinal Scola continues to be a respected theologian. He has led both the Milan and Venice archdioceses and remains influential in conservative Catholic circles.

Despite his age, his name is still mentioned in discussions among traditionalists.

10. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy)

As the current Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pizzaballa has years of experience working in areas filled with religious tensions.

His Franciscan background and his involvement in promoting peace and dialogue in the Middle East make him a unique and potentially unifying choice for the role of pope.