“Here are the top cardinals who could replace Pope Francis after the conclave”

Following the death of Pope Francis at age 88, speculation has intensified over who will be selected as the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The conclave of eligible cardinals will soon convene in Vatican City to elect a successor, a decision that could shape the Church’s future direction in terms of theology, governance, and global engagement.

The next pontiff may come from a variety of regions—including Africa, Asia, Europe, or even the Americas—but many observers believe the College of Cardinals will seek a candidate with a more centrist or conservative disposition, following Francis’ often reform-minded tenure.

During his 12-year papacy, Francis made headlines for efforts to broaden inclusion, such as expressing support for LGBTQ Catholics, while also restricting the traditional Latin Mass—decisions that drew both praise and criticism within Church circles.

“The cardinals may look for a candidate who brings a more measured tone,” said Serenhedd James, editor of the Catholic Herald. “Someone likely to take a different, calmer approach after years of internal debate.”

Fr. Patrick Mary Briscoe, editor of Our Sunday Visitor, echoed that sentiment, stating the next pope may focus more on internal Church governance and aim to provide “a renewed clarity of doctrine.”

The Conclave Process

Under current Church law, a conclave must begin within 20 days of the pope’s passing. The 120 cardinal electors—those under age 80—will meet in the Sistine Chapel for a series of secret ballots. Four votes may be held per day, and if no clear winner emerges after 30 rounds, voting is limited to the top two candidates. A two-thirds majority is required to elect the new pope.

Pope Francis reshaped the College of Cardinals significantly during his pontificate, appointing many members from outside Europe, including Latin America, Asia, and Africa. He also extended the term of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 91, as Dean of the College, who may play a behind-the-scenes advisory role during the conclave.

Potential Successors

Several cardinals are currently viewed as frontrunners by Vatican analysts, including Gaetano Masciullo, Edward Pentin, and Diane Montagna of the College of Cardinals Report. The following candidates have emerged as notable figures in the succession conversation:

• Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (67, Philippines): A former head of Caritas International and known protégé of Pope Francis, Tagle has expressed openness on contentious issues such as Communion for divorced Catholics and pastoral care for LGBTQ individuals. His prospects may be tempered by administrative challenges during his tenure.

• Cardinal Pietro Parolin (70, Italy): As the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Parolin brings extensive diplomatic experience and has been involved in outreach efforts, including controversial negotiations with the Chinese government. He is considered a strong contender with broad international recognition.

• Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (66, France): Reportedly favored by Pope Francis, Aveline is known for his theological depth and advocacy of decentralizing Church governance. His views have earned him support in progressive circles but may present challenges among more traditional voters.

• Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk (71, Netherlands): A former physician and theologian, Eijk is recognized for his conservative stance on doctrinal issues, including opposition to same-sex blessings and gender ideology. His administrative competence is also noted.

• Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith (77, Sri Lanka): The archbishop of Colombo, Ranjith is respected for his liturgical conservatism and commitment to social justice. He is viewed as aligned with the theological orientation of Pope Benedict XVI while also embodying some of Francis’ priorities.

• Cardinal Robert Sarah (79, Guinea): A former Vatican liturgy chief, Sarah is widely admired among traditionalists for defending the Latin Mass and voicing concerns about recent doctrinal shifts. His potential election would mark the first African pope in over 1,500 years.

Theoretical Alternatives

While canon law allows any baptized Catholic male to be elected pope, in practice, the office has consistently gone to cardinals. Dr. Edward Peters, a canon law expert, explains that a non-cardinal would require immediate ordination as bishop if elected. However, historians note such a scenario is highly unlikely. “The odds of a non-cardinal being chosen are virtually nonexistent,” said Dr. Christopher Bellitto of Kean University. “The last time it happened led to the Great Western Schism.”

The forthcoming conclave presents a pivotal moment for the Church as it navigates evolving cultural landscapes and internal debates. Whether the next pope reinforces the direction established under Francis or steers the Church in a new trajectory remains to be seen.

Rewritten: Original source article posted here: https://nypost.com/2025/04/21/world-news/who-will-be-next-pope-after-francis-vatican-conclave/

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