Debates Begin Over Pope Francis’ Successor as Cardinals Gather in Rome

By Staff, Agencies

As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, attention is swiftly turning to his potential successor. Cardinals from across the globe are beginning to arrive in Rome for the late pope's funeral, and alongside the solemn ceremonies, quiet discussions are underway about who will lead the Catholic Church next.

The conclave — the secretive electoral process that will begin next month — will see 135 eligible cardinals cast their votes. Though the outcome remains uncertain, several prominent candidates are already drawing attention, each representing a different vision for the future of the Church.

Pietro Parolin

Nationality: Italian

Current Role: Secretary of State, Holy See

Parolin is a seasoned Vatican diplomat and one of the most experienced figures in Church governance. He has played a key role in international affairs, brokering delicate agreements, including one with China regarding bishop appointments — a deal criticized by some as compromising the Church’s moral authority. Parolin also condemned President Trump's plans to remove Palestinians from Gaza, signaling his global outlook. His strong ties to Vatican structures and his moderate stance make him a potential continuity candidate.

Matteo Zuppi

Nationality: Italian

Current Role: Archbishop of Bologna

Zuppi is widely seen as a progressive figure in the Church. Known for his humanitarian work and peace missions — including a recent papal assignment to Ukraine, Moscow, Washington, and Beijing — Zuppi has also advocated for LGBTQ inclusion and migrant rights. A member of the Sant’Egidio community, he mirrors much of Francis’ social focus, though his limited Vatican political experience and alignment with progressive ideals could hinder support from conservative cardinals.

Pierbattista Pizzaballa

Nationality: Italian

Current Role: Latin Patriarch of "Jerusalem" [Al-Quds]

Pizzaballa has devoted his service to conflict zones, particularly the Middle East. Despite minimal involvement in Vatican politics, his neutrality on divisive Church issues and diplomatic posture in volatile regions make him a possible consensus candidate.

Jose Tolentino de Mendonca

Nationality: Portuguese

Current Role: Prefect, Dicastery for Culture and Education

Tolentino de Mendonca is the Church’s youngest cardinal under consideration. A poet, academic, and former missionary, he represents a culturally engaged and progressive outlook. His openness to feminist theology and same-sex relationships may be controversial among traditionalists, but he could be a transformative choice for a Church seeking modern relevance.

Luis Antonio Tagle

Nationality: Filipino

Current Role: Head of Evangelization Department

Tagle, once considered too young for the papacy, is now a seasoned Vatican figure with deep roots in Asia — a region where Catholicism continues to grow. A close ally of Pope Francis, he champions charitable outreach and inclusive policies. As a candidate, he represents both continuity with Francis’ vision and a potential shift toward a more global Church, possibly becoming the first Asian pope.

Fridolin Ambongo Besungu

Nationality: Congolese

Current Role: Archbishop of Kinshasa

Ambongo leads one of Africa’s largest dioceses and is known for his outspoken defense of human rights and democracy. A Capuchin Franciscan, he shares a spiritual connection with the late pope. Though conservative on issues such as same-sex relationships, his inclusion in Francis' inner advisory circle suggests broad appeal. His profile bridges progressive and traditional factions.

Peter Erdo

Nationality: Hungarian

Current Role: Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest

A prominent conservative voice, Erdo is known for his strong theological positions and alignment with Hungarian President Viktor Orbán’s anti-migration policies — diverging significantly from Francis’ inclusive approach. A scholar of canon law and a traditionalist on family issues, Erdo could lead a return to a more orthodox papacy focused on Europe.

With the conclave drawing nearer, cardinals will navigate ideological divides, regional dynamics, and personal convictions as they choose the next leader of the Catholic Church. Whether the decision will result in a pope of continuity, reform or tradition remains to be seen — but the outcome will shape the Church's direction for years to come.