With Pope Francis’ passing, the world now waits to see who will become the next Pope. After the first Latin American Pontiff, could we soon see a Black or Asian leader of the Catholic Church? Here are some of the top contenders to become the next Pope.
Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
The former Archbishop of Manila, an advocate for inclusion and evangelization, has significant experience leading the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and was a trusted figure in Francis’s inner circle. He has complained that the Catholic church has been too harsh towards gay and divorced couples, and that this has hampered its evangelical work.
“Let us be calm and let us not stereotype each other.” -Luis Antonio Tagle
Jose Tolentino (Portugal)
He has served as an Archbishop and held several Vatican roles. At just 59 he is a relatively young candidate, and has advocated that biblical scholars engage with the modern world by watching films and listening to music.
“When a society thinks it can exist without culture, it has hit rock bottom.” -Jose Tolentino
Peter Turkson (Ghana)
Turkson has been vocal on issues such as climate change, poverty, and economic justice. His election would make history by appointing the first African Pope in centuries.
“Human advancement and evangelization are inextricably linked.” -Peter Turkson
Pietro Parolin (Italy)
Paroli is the closest thing to a ‘continuity candidate’ since he worked with Pope Francis as Cardinal Secretary of State. He is seen as a moderate theological candidate, someone who could provide stability while still maintaining some of Francis’s reforms.
“Every attitude of closure, of non-acceptance of others, is an attitude which does not help us to progress.” -Pietro Parolin
Peter Erdö (Hungary)
Erdö served as head of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences and has emphasized theological orthodoxy, making him a conservative candidate and strong advocate for traditional Catholic teachings and doctrine.
“Faith is the most important thing in life.” -Peter Erdö
Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
Pope Francis made him the Vatican peace envoy for Ukraine two years ago, and he visited Moscow to encourage gestures of humanity.
“Forgiveness and justice are the path to peace.” -Matteo Zuppi
Angelo Scola (Italy)
The former Archbishop of Milan has deep theological roots and appeals to those who support a more centralized and hierarchical Church. His traditionalism makes him a strong candidate for those looking to change Francis’ reforms, but his age may work against him since he’s 82.
“The destination is a happy life, an accomplished life that doesn’t end with death but with eternal life.” -Angelo Scola
Robert Sarah (French Guinea)
He has been working in Vatican positions since the time of John Paul II. With a rather conservative view, he has denounced gender ideology as a threat to society. He has also spoken out against Islamic fundamentalism.
“Economic, political, and media pressures never cease to diminish the connection between liberty and truth.” -Robert Sarah
Mario Grech (Malta)
Grech has previously served as the Bishop of Gozo, Malta and is now the Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops. He invited the church to ‘learn a new language’ regarding gay couples and divorcees.
“Speech without silence easily becomes hollow words. Silence without speech can easily lead to a state of apathy and irresponsibility.” -Mario Grech
