World awaits historic choice as Cardinals gather to elect successor to Pope Francis

The world watches with bated breath as Catholic Cardinals convene in Rome for the Papal Conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis, the first Latin American Pope, who passed away at the age of 88.

Amid the solemn proceedings, speculation is swirling about whether the Church is poised to make history once again — perhaps by choosing the first Black or Asian Pope.

The selection comes at a critical moment for the Catholic Church, as it faces growing demands for reform, representation, and renewal.

A look at the leading contenders paints a picture of a Church at a crossroads between tradition and change.

Peter Turkson, 76 (Ghana)

A strong contender from Africa, Cardinal Peter Turkson, former Archbishop of Cape Coast, would become the first Black Pope if elected.

Having served as a peace envoy to South Sudan under Pope Francis, Turkson holds moderate views on social issues, advocating for more humane laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights in Africa while respecting local sentiments. He was among the frontrunners during the 2013 conclave that ultimately elected Francis.

Luis Antonio Tagle, 67 (Philippines)

Another leading candidate is Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, former Archbishop of Manila and a prominent figure in the Vatican. Hailing from Asia—the region with the fastest-growing Catholic population—Tagle could become the Church’s first Asian Pontiff.

Though firmly opposed to abortion, he has championed a more compassionate approach towards gay and divorced Catholics, criticizing the Church’s historically harsh stance for hindering evangelism.

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Pietro Parolin, 70 (Italy)

Currently the Vatican’s Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin is seen as a continuity candidate closely aligned with Francis’ administration. A moderate figure, Parolin has sometimes leaned conservative, notably describing Ireland’s 2015 legalization of same-sex marriage as “a defeat for humanity.” His reputation has been somewhat dented by the controversial 2018 Vatican-China agreement, which critics say compromised the Church’s autonomy.

Peter Erdo, 72 (Hungary)

The Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, Cardinal Peter Erdo, could become the second Pope from the former Soviet bloc. A staunch conservative, Erdo has spoken against allowing divorced or remarried Catholics to receive communion.

His background in a region marked by religious persecution during communist rule gives him a profile steeped in resilience and tradition.

Jose Tolentino de Mendonça, 59 (Portugal)

A relatively younger face among the contenders, Archbishop Jose Tolentino de Mendonça represents a modern intellectual approach within the Church.

Originating from Madeira, Portugal, he advocates for Church scholars to engage with contemporary culture through media and the arts. His youth and progressive ideas could appeal to those seeking generational renewal.

Matteo Zuppi, 69 (Italy)

Archbishop of Bologna and appointed Cardinal by Pope Francis in 2019, Matteo Zuppi has been deeply involved in diplomacy, notably serving as the Vatican’s peace envoy for Ukraine.

Though his mission yielded little concrete progress, his experience as a bridge-builder could position him as a compelling choice in an era of global conflict and division.

Mario Grech, 68 (Malta)

Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, blends traditionalism with a modern pastoral sensitivity.

He has called for the Church to “learn a new language” in its approach to LGBTQ+ couples and divorcees, aiming for a more inclusive tone while maintaining core doctrines.

Robert Sarah, 79 (Guinea)

Another prominent African contender, Cardinal Robert Sarah from Guinea, has served under multiple Popes in key Vatican roles. Known for his strong conservative views, Sarah has warned against the threats of gender ideology and Islamic extremism.

However, his advanced age could be a limiting factor in his candidacy.

As the Cardinals deliberate in secrecy within the Sistine Chapel, the global Catholic community—and indeed the world—awaits the white smoke that will signal the election of a new leader, one who could shape the future of the Church in profound and lasting ways.