Pope Francis passed away after a long battle with respiratory complications. As the world mourns, the question rises: Who will be the next Pope? After battling a serious respiratory infection that turned into bilateral pneumonia, the pontiff was hospitalized for nearly a month at the Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome. He was later released and returned to the Vatican, where he passed away on April 21.
Although recent updates from the Vatican had suggested that his health was stabilizing, his condition deteriorated unexpectedly. His passing has left millions in mourning—and asking the question on everyone’s mind: Who Will Be the Next Pope?
What Happens Now? Here’s How the Papal Conclave Works
With Pope Francis’ death, the Vatican will soon call for a papal conclave—a formal process where the College of Cardinals gathers in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next pope.
As of January 22, 2025, there are 252 cardinals worldwide, but only 138 are eligible to vote—those under the age of 80. The voting process is secret and done in multiple rounds, with four votes per day until one candidate secures two-thirds of the votes. The process typically lasts between 15 and 20 days.
And of course, the world is watching closely to see: Who will be the next Pope?
- Read also: “If I Can’t Marry You, I’ll Become a Priest”: Pope Francis Love Story That Changed His Life Forever
Who Will Be the Next Pope? Here Are the Top Candidates
Several cardinals are emerging as strong contenders for the papacy, each representing different theological and geographic perspectives within the Church.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
The current Vatican Secretary of State, Parolin is a respected diplomat known for his moderate views and political savvy. He holds the highest-ranking position among the electors.
Cardinal Peter Erdo (Hungary)
A conservative figure and former president of the Council of European Bishops, Erdo opposes communion for divorced and remarried Catholics, citing the indissolubility of marriage.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
Dubbed the “Asian Francis,” Tagle is known for his progressive stances. He’s the current pro-prefect of the Evangelization Department and has criticized the Church’s language toward LGBTQ+ people, single mothers, and divorced Catholics.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
A favorite of Pope Francis, Zuppi has led the Italian Episcopal Conference since 2022 and is seen as someone who could carry forward Francis’ legacy of inclusivity and reform.
Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA)
A traditionalist and vocal critic of many of Francis’ reforms, Burke represents the most conservative wing of the Church. He was elevated to cardinal in 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI.
Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson (Ghana)
With experience in peace diplomacy and Vatican leadership, Turkson could become the first African pope in over 1,500 years. He’s known for his work on economic justice and climate change. One of our favorites, but the question of who will be the next Pope? still remains.
Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (France)
The Archbishop of Marseille, Aveline is praised for his focus on interfaith dialogue and support for migrants, positioning him as a progressive choice for a changing world.
In the face of global challenges and growing diversity among Catholics, many wonder: Who Will Be the Next Pope, and what will his vision be?
The death of Pope Francis marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church. As the conclave approaches, all eyes are on the Vatican to see Who Will Be the Next Pope? Will the Church continue its path of reform, or take a more conservative turn?
No matter the outcome, one thing is certain: the decision will shape the future of the Catholic Church for generations to come. Who Will Be the Next Pope? We’ll know soon enough.
