Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, leaving behind a deeply divided Church and a College of Cardinals poised to choose his successor—one who could either extend Francis’ progressive legacy or steer the Catholic Church back toward traditional roots.
In 15 to 20 days, cardinals from across the world will gather in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel for a secret ballot to elect the next Pope. While any Catholic man is technically eligible, only cardinals have been selected since the 14th century.
This decision is no small matter: the next Pope will shape the moral voice of 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide and either continue or correct course after Francis’ controversial 12-year reign.
During his time as Pontiff, Francis prioritized left-wing causes like climate change, mass migration, and so-called “inclusion” for the LGBTQ community—sparking alarm among many faithful Catholics who saw his positions as diverging from centuries of Church doctrine.
Critically, Francis also reshaped the College of Cardinals. Nearly 80% of those voting in the next conclave were handpicked by him. Many hail from countries far from the traditional centers of Catholic power and align with his more globalist and progressive vision.
This conclave will test whether Francis’ revolution continues—or whether the Church pivots back toward the timeless truths and moral clarity that have guided it for centuries.
Here are the top contenders to become the next Pope:
Cardinal Luis Tagle – Philippines
Often called the “Asian Pope Francis,” 67-year-old Cardinal Tagle is seen as a favorite among global elites and liberal Catholics. He’s voiced opposition to Church teachings that he considers “harsh” and believes the Church should avoid being “judgmental.”
If elected, Tagle would continue Francis’ progressive agenda and become the first Pope from Asia.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin – Italy
As the Vatican Secretary of State under Francis, Parolin has a long record of diplomacy and Vatican politics. While he expressed disapproval of gay marriage in Ireland, his role in striking a secretive deal with Communist China over bishop appointments has drawn sharp criticism.
Parolin recently met with Vice President JD Vance, focusing on migrants and prisoners. He’s viewed as a middle-road candidate with establishment ties—but some question his compromises with authoritarian regimes.
Cardinal Péter Erdő – Hungary
A strong contender from Eastern Europe, Cardinal Erdő stands firmly in the conservative camp. He’s opposed efforts to redefine marriage, challenged Francis on divorce and remarriage, and warned against open-borders migration.
Erdő has accused the media of distorting the Church’s message and is seen as a staunch defender of orthodoxy. His global connections—particularly in Africa—could boost his chances.
Cardinal Robert Sarah – Guinea
A lion of conservative Catholicism, Cardinal Sarah has long been one of the loudest voices against the progressive tide in the Vatican. He’s warned about the dangers of unchecked migration, criticized globalist ideologies, and boldly equated radical leftist gender ideologies to past totalitarian regimes.
If elected, Sarah would be the first Pope from Sub-Saharan Africa in modern history and a clear break from the Francis era.
Cardinal Peter Turkson – Ghana
Another African candidate, Cardinal Turkson differs sharply from Sarah. A key architect of Francis’ climate agenda, Turkson helped craft the “Laudato Si” encyclical, which promoted radical environmentalism.
Though he opposes same-sex marriage on religious grounds, Turkson controversially spoke out against anti-LGBT legislation in his home country—drawing backlash from fellow African bishops. He’s viewed as another likely continuity pick for the Francis wing.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi – Italy
Seen as one of the most progressive Italian cardinals, Zuppi has championed outreach to the LGBT community and was linked to a 2022 same-sex blessing controversy in Bologna.
Francis sent him as an envoy to Ukraine and Russia, and he met with both Zelensky and Joe Biden. If chosen, Zuppi would represent a deepening of the Church’s current liberal orientation.
President Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump have announced they will attend Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome—a move likely to be noted worldwide, as Trump remains a powerful voice for tradition, faith, and national sovereignty.
As the cardinals enter conclave, one thing is clear: this isn’t just a vote for a new religious leader—it’s a battle for the soul of the Catholic Church. Will they choose another progressive globalist or return the Church to its enduring moral roots?
The world—and faithful Catholics everywhere—are watching.
