Approximately 138 eligible Cardinals under the age of 80 from around the world are expected to elect the new Pope who will succeed Pope Francis.
Reports indicate that two-thirds of these cardinal electors have been appointed by Francis over the past decade, reflecting his vision of a more inclusive Church.
Among the 138 voters, Cardinals from 18 African countries are set to participate in selecting the next Pope.
The death of Pope Francis has initiated the complex political process within the Catholic Church to identify a new leader.
The Cardinals are expected to gather in the Vatican for the election, known as a conclave, following a traditional 15-day mourning period.
However, predicting the outcome of this highly secretive conclave is nearly impossible, as the positions of cardinals can shift significantly over successive votes.
During the last conclave in 2013, few anticipated that Jorge Mario Bergoglio would be elected as Pope Francis. Current speculation centers around several potential successors:
Pietro Parolin, 70, Italy
Described as a moderate “continuity candidate,” Parolin has served as the Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013 and has played a key role in diplomatic affairs. Critics label him a modernist who prioritizes diplomacy over the Church’s core tenets, while supporters view him as a courageous idealist advocating for peace.
Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, the Philippines
The former Archbishop of Manila, Tagle could become the first Asian pope, hailing from a region with the fastest-growing Catholic demographic. Despite being seen as Francis’s preferred successor in the past, he has recently lost favor, having criticised the Church’s positions on divorce and LGBTQ+ issues while opposing abortion rights in the Philippines.
Peter Turkson, 76, Ghana
Turkson has the potential to be the first black pope in centuries. He is vocal about climate change, poverty, and economic justice while maintaining traditional Church teachings. However, he has softened his views on LGBTQ+ issues, advocating for a more compassionate legal approach in several African nations.
Péter Erdő, 72, Hungary
As a leading conservative candidate, Erdő supports traditional Catholic teachings and could represent a notable departure from Francis’s approach. He has aligned himself with Hungary’s nationalist policies and has opposed Francis’s invitations to welcome migrants.
Matteo Zuppi, 69, Italy
Appointed by Francis in 2019, Zuppi is seen as a progressive likely to uphold the late pope’s legacy focusing on the poor and marginalized. He has served as the Vatican’s peace envoy for Ukraine, meeting with leaders from both Russia and Ukraine.
José Tolentino Calaca de Mendonça, 59, Portugal
One of the youngest contenders, Tolentino’s ambition may raise concerns for some supporters. He has sparked controversy for his inclusive views on same-sex relationships and feminist issues within the Church.
Mario Grech, 68, Malta
Initially regarded as a traditionalist, Grech has evolved towards progressive views since Francis’s election, demonstrating growth and adaptability.
Pierbattista Pizzaballa, 60, Italy
Serving as the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pizzaballa has engaged in advocacy for the Christian minority in the Holy Land and shows an inclination to continue some of Francis’s leadership styles.
Robert Sarah, 79, Guinea
A traditionalist who has sought to position himself as a “parallel authority” to Francis, Sarah remains vocal on clerical celibacy and other contentious issues, potentially making history as the first black pope.
Catholic Bishops of Nigeria Pay Tribute to Late Pope Francis
Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), has honored the late Pope Francis, emphasizing his leadership in ecumenism and interfaith dialogue.
Ugorji stated, “The late Pontiff fostered greater understanding and cooperation among Christian denominations, promoting a culture of dialogue and mutual respect.”
He highlighted Francis’s fervent advocacy for the marginalised and stressed the importance of addressing poverty and social justice.
“Pope Francis implemented significant reforms within the Church, including critical changes to liturgical texts and the establishment of new Vatican departments,” Ugorji said.
He recognised Francis’ encyclical “Laudato Si’,” which emphasised urgent environmental needs and sparked global discussions on climate action.
“Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was revered for his humility and compassion. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire millions around the world,” he added.
Ugorji also mentioned that the Pope’s funeral would adhere to the updated liturgical rites approved in April 2024, reflecting the late pontiff’s wish for a more austere and faith-centered celebration.
He urged all Catholics and people of goodwill to pray for the repose of Pope Francis and for the Catholic Church during this time of transition.
CAN Mourns Pope Francis, Champion of Mercy
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88.
CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh said, “Pope Francis was a towering figure of faith whose papacy radiated mercy, justice, and profound love for humanity.”
He acknowledged the late pontiff’s influential leadership in strengthening the Church in Nigeria through the appointment of Nigerian bishops and cardinals.
“His unwavering commitment to interfaith dialogue brought hope for peace within our diverse nation, nurturing unity in the face of numerous challenges,” Okoh said.
He praised Francis’s advocacy against poverty and corruption, asserting that it “deeply resonated with us, urging everyone to uphold the dignity of every Nigerian.”
“Even though he never visited Nigeria, his pastoral journeys across Africa conveyed powerful messages of solidarity.
“His teachings in ‘Laudato Si’ and ‘Amoris Laetitia’ enriched our spiritual lives by addressing critical issues such as environmental stewardship and family life.”
As they mourn the loss of this dedicated servant of God, Okoh called for prayers for the peaceful repose of Pope Francis’s soul and for the Catholic Church during this time of transition.
“May the legacy of Pope Francis, rooted in compassion, justice, and humility, continue to inspire us as we strive toward a more united and righteous Nigeria,” he said.
