Nine Cardinals Who Could Succeed Pope Francis
The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, whose papacy touched millions with its humility, reformist zeal, and compassion. As the Vatican prepares for a conclave to choose the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church, global attention turns to the cardinals seen as potential successors — or papabili, as they’re known in Church circles.
While it’s long been said that “he who enters a conclave as pope, exits as a cardinal,” these nine candidates are drawing the most attention:
1. Jean-Marc Aveline (France, 66)
Aveline is the archbishop of Marseille and a progressive voice aligned closely with Pope Francis’ priorities, including immigration and interfaith dialogue. Known for his down-to-earth demeanor and scholarly background, Aveline could be the first French pope since the 14th century. However, his limited Italian may pose a challenge.
2. Peter Erdo (Hungary, 72)
Seen as a bridge between conservative and reformist camps, Erdo has deep ties across Europe and Africa. A theological conservative with diplomatic finesse, he has been criticized in the past for views on refugees but remains respected for his legal expertise and multilingual fluency.
3. Mario Grech (Malta, 68)
The secretary general of the Synod of Bishops, Grech is a reform-minded figure who embraces modern challenges facing the Church. Though once conservative, he now champions inclusivity and consensus. His moderate stance and influential Vatican role give him significant visibility.
4. Juan José Omella (Spain, 79)
Omella, archbishop of Barcelona, mirrors Francis in humility and social justice advocacy. A former missionary and champion of the poor, his age and closeness to Francis may either help or hinder his chances, depending on what direction the cardinals seek.
5. Pietro Parolin (Italy, 70)
The Vatican’s top diplomat and Secretary of State, Parolin is a familiar name in Church governance. Fluent in multiple languages and known for his calm approach, he is considered a compromise candidate who could bring the papacy back to Italy after nearly five decades.
6. Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines, 67)
Often dubbed the “Asian Francis,” Tagle is known for his humility, theological depth, and strong missionary credentials. He has led major Church organizations and holds wide appeal across the Global South. However, a recent leadership shake-up at Caritas may cast some doubt on his administrative record.
7. Joseph Tobin (USA, 72)
The archbishop of Newark is a pastoral leader with strong Vatican experience and a global outlook. Openly supportive of marginalized groups, Tobin is seen as a symbol of a more inclusive Church. His candidacy could be historic — but a U.S. pope remains a longshot politically.
8. Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson (Ghana, 76)
One of the Church’s most prominent African voices, Turkson combines grassroots pastoral experience with years in Vatican leadership. A strong communicator and advocate for social justice, his election would mark the first pope from sub-Saharan Africa.
9. Matteo Maria Zuppi (Italy, 69)
Zuppi, the archbishop of Bologna, is a beloved “street priest” known for championing migrants and the poor. Informal, bicycle-riding, and deeply aligned with Francis’ vision, he could be the continuity candidate many reform-minded cardinals are hoping for.
The Road Ahead
While these nine cardinals lead speculation, history has shown that the next pope could still be an unexpected choice. The conclave will unfold in strict secrecy, guided by prayer, tradition, and the urgent question of how best to shepherd the Catholic Church into the future.
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Nine Cardinals Who Could Succeed Pope Francis