By Gloria Nosa
With the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88, the eyes of the Catholic world now turn to the Vatican as anticipation builds over who will lead the Church into its next chapter. The College of Cardinals will soon convene for a papal conclave — a secretive and historic process that has shaped the spiritual direction of over a billion Catholics worldwide.
While the Church has not officially signaled a successor, speculation is mounting over a handful of prominent figures seen as frontrunners for the papacy. Among them is Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, the Archbishop of Bologna, known for his pastoral warmth and diplomatic finesse. Zuppi has played a key role in peace efforts in Ukraine and Africa, and is widely respected for his progressive yet grounded approach to Church doctrine.
Another leading name is Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana, a long-time advocate for environmental and economic justice, who served as the head of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. His election would mark a historic moment as the first African pope in over a millennium.
Also in consideration is Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, who has gained global admiration for his humility, emotional sermons, and deep connection with the faithful in Asia. Seen by many as a spiritual bridge between East and West, Tagle is viewed as a symbol of the Church’s expanding reach in the Global South.
Conservative circles within the Vatican, however, have floated the name of Cardinal Raymond Burke, a U.S.-born traditionalist known for his vocal critiques of some of Pope Francis’ reforms. His potential candidacy signals a desire among some factions for a doctrinal reset.
As the conclave approaches, the debate intensifies between those who wish to see continuity with Francis’ inclusive vision and those calling for a return to a more rigid theological framework. Regardless of the outcome, the next pontiff will inherit a Church facing a complex world: one divided by conflict, shaken by scandal, and seeking renewed moral authority.
For now, Vatican watchers and faithful alike wait with bated breath — as a new spiritual chapter stands on the threshold.
List below
1. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
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Position: Archbishop of Bologna, President of the Italian Bishops’ Conference
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Notable for: Peace diplomacy, progressive social views, close to Pope Francis’ vision
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Strengths: Mediator in Ukraine conflict; respected pastoral leadership
2. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
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Position: Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples
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Notable for: Deep humility, emotional resonance in preaching, and bridge between East and West
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Strengths: Seen as the face of a growing Asian Church; multilingual and charismatic
3. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
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Position: Former head of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development
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Notable for: Environmental advocacy, social justice work
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Strengths: Global south representation; widely respected across ideological lines
4. Cardinal Christoph Schönborn (Austria)
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Position: Archbishop of Vienna
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Notable for: Theological depth, contributor to the Catechism of the Catholic Church
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Strengths: Moderate voice, capable of uniting conservative and liberal factions
5. Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich (Luxembourg)
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Position: Archbishop of Luxembourg, President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the EU (COMECE)
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Notable for: Advocate of synodality and Church reform
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Strengths: Seen as aligned with Francis’ vision of a more inclusive Church
6. Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA)
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Position: Former head of the Apostolic Signatura
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Notable for: Outspoken critic of Pope Francis
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Strengths: Strong support from traditionalist factions; controversial figure
7. Cardinal Marc Ouellet (Canada)
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Position: Former Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops
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Notable for: Extensive experience within Vatican hierarchy
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Strengths: Intellectual and organizational experience; seen as a steady hand
8. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis (Italy)
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Position: Vicar General for the Diocese of Rome
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Notable for: Pastoral accessibility and theological clarity
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Strengths: Deep involvement in diocesan reform and evangelization efforts
