MANILA, Philippines – Many were shocked by the news that the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, had passed away on Monday, April 21, according to confirmation from Vatican City.
Based on the report from Vatican News, Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced that Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 at around 7:35 a.m. Vatican time (1:35 p.m. Philippine time).
It was later revealed that his death was due to falling into a coma after suffering a stroke and an irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. What’s even more chilling is that the Pope was still able to participate in activities and Masses related to Holy Week. He was even seen by Catholic devotees who attended the Easter Sunday Mass.
As Catholics around the world mourn, many are now wondering who will succeed him—not only as the leader of the Catholic Church, but also as the head of Vatican City.
Just like in the selection of previous popes, the new leader will be chosen through a vote by the Cardinals—and among them is Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle.
At 67 years old, Cardinal Tagle is a well-respected figure in the Catholic Church, recognized for his compassionate leadership style and shared progressive outlook with Pope Francis.
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| Pope Francis (left) speaks with cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle during the Synod on the family, at the Vatican, on October 5, 2015. Photo courtesy: ABS-CBN News |
He previously held the roles of Archbishop of Manila and Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.
Should he be chosen, he would make history as the first Asian pope, symbolizing the Church’s increasing presence and influence in Asia.
Here are the other contenders to succeed Pope Francis:
1. Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (France) – French media have referred to him as John XXIV in certain Catholic circles, drawing a comparison to Pope John XXIII, the reformist pope of the 1960s known for his round face. Aveline is admired for his approachable, laid-back personality, often lightening the mood with humor. He shares similar views with Pope Francis, particularly on issues like immigration and fostering relations with the Muslim world. Additionally, he is described as a deeply intellectual figure, holding a doctorate in theology and a degree in philosophy.
2. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana) – 76 years old, has been a prominent advocate for social justice and environmental concerns within the Church. He formerly headed the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. If elected, he would become the first modern-day African pope.
3. Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary) – He serves as the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest and is highly regarded for his expertise in canon law. He is considered a conservative contender, appealing to those who favor a revival of traditional Church values.He is currently 72 years old.
4. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy) – He currently holds the position of the Vatican’s Secretary of State, essentially serving as the chief diplomat of the Holy See. Known as a moderate and a candidate who represents continuity, he has been instrumental in various diplomatic efforts, including the Vatican’s agreement with China. He is 70 years old.
5. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta) – He is the 68-year-old Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops. He has played a key role in advancing synodality and inclusivity within the Church, closely aligning with Pope Francis’s vision.
6. Cardinal Juan Jose Omella (Spain) – Omella, 70, a former president of Spain's bishops' conference, faced the repercussions of a report from an independent commission in 2023, which estimated that over 200,000 minors might have been sexually abused by Spanish clergy over several decades.
7. Cardinal Joseph Tobin (US) – Although it is improbable that the cardinals would choose the first-ever pope from the United States, Tobin would be the most probable candidate if they did. Originally from Detroit, Tobin once led the global Catholic religious order called the Redemptorists. He has worked internationally and is fluent in Italian, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Additionally, he brings experience from his roles within the Vatican and high-ranking positions throughout the US Church.
The forthcoming conclave will bring together 138 cardinals who are eligible to vote, a significant number of whom were selected by Pope Francis, which could have a substantial impact on the future leadership of the Church.
While preparations for that are underway, the funeral and tribute for the late Holy Father are also scheduled.
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
