The papal conclave has officially begun on May 7, 2025, with 133 cardinal electors casting their votes in secrecy in the Sistine Chapel. As the election process unfolds, the world is watching with bated breath. The Church stands at a crossroads, with some fearing the potential rise of more conservative voices in the papacy, especially as far-right ideologies gain prominence across the globe. Will the next pope continue Pope Francis’s more progressive agenda, or will one of the Church’s most conservative cardinals emerge as the leader of the faithful?
Every time a pope steps down or passes away, the Vatican is thrust into a period of intense scrutiny as cardinals from around the world gather in Rome to choose the next leader. The process is conducted in secrecy, with 133 cardinals currently serving as electors for the next papacy. These cardinals will continue to vote until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority, which has historically taken anywhere from a few days to over a week. The suspense only deepens as black smoke rises from the chapel, signaling that no decision has been made yet.
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So far, the first round of voting has not yielded a result. Black smoke was visible from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, indicating that the cardinals have yet to come to a consensus. This is a typical start to the conclave, as the cardinals weigh their options and engage in discussions behind closed doors. The process continues until a pope is elected, which could take several days—or longer—depending on the direction the vote takes.
Who Are the Most Conservative Cardinals?
Several conservative cardinals have emerged as potential leaders during this papal election. These figures are known for their traditionalist views on key issues within the Church and have openly criticized more progressive movements within the Vatican. Here’s a closer look at the most conservative cardinals in the running:
Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea):
A vocal defender of traditional Catholic doctrine, Sarah has been outspoken against gender ideology, secularism, and liturgical reforms. He is known for his strong opposition to Pope Francis’s more progressive initiatives, warning about the decline of Western Christian values. Undoubtedly, on of the most conservative cardinals right now.
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Cardinal Gerhard Müller (Germany):
Former Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Müller is a staunch advocate for strict interpretations of Catholic teachings. He has criticized doctrinal flexibility and is known for his theological orthodoxy, making him a prominent figure among the Church’s traditionalists.
Cardinal Raymond Burke (United States):
Perhaps one of the most vocal critics of Pope Francis, Burke has been a fierce advocate for traditional liturgies, including the Latin Mass. He has also been an outspoken opponent of reforms related to LGBTQ+ inclusion, making him a leading figure in the conservative cardinals’ camp.
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Cardinal Peter Erdő (Hungary):
Erdő is a respected theologian and canon law expert, known for his defense of traditional Catholic teachings, particularly on marriage and liturgy. His intellectual rigor and leadership in European Catholic circles make him a significant contender for the papacy.
These conservative cardinals represent a more traditionalist approach to Catholicism, with a strong emphasis on preserving established doctrines. If one of them were to be elected, the Vatican could experience a significant shift back toward conservative views, particularly in areas related to social issues and liturgical practices.
As the conclave progresses, all eyes are on the conservative cardinals who could steer the Catholic Church in a more traditional direction. The election of a pope with conservative views could mark a dramatic shift in the Church’s stance on various issues. While the process remains uncertain, the influence of these conservative cardinals will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of the Church.
