Pope Francis died: Who will be his successor?

Pope Francis died: Who will be his successor?

Vatikanstadt - Pope Francis died this morning, on April 21, 2025. This begins the search for his successor, which is signaled by white smoke from the Sistine chapel when a new Pope is chosen. The Roman Catholic Church is interpreted by the Cardinal College in interim.

of the total of 252 cardinals are 138 under 80 and are therefore entitled to vote. These represent the decisive voice in the election of the new head of the church. 109 of these cardinals entitled to vote were appointed by Francis, 22 by Benedikt XVI. and 5 by John Paul II. Historical insights show that the influence of European cardinals decreases: In recent years, the proportion of European cardinals entitled to vote fell from 52 % in 2013 to 43 %.

possible candidates for the papal office

Attention is now aimed at the potential candidates who are considered “papabiles”. Observers expect the next Pope might come from a non -European country to continue the progressive course of Francis. Diplomatic experiences and continuity are chosen by many, whereby the influence of Francis has been strengthened in recent years.

  • Jean-Marc Aveline (66, France)
  • Peter Erdö (72, Hungary)
  • Mario Grech (68, Malta)
  • Pietro Parolin (70, Italy)
  • Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle (67, Philippines)
  • Joseph Tobin (72, USA)
  • Peter Kodwo Turkson (76, Ghana)
  • Matteo Maria Zupi (69, Italy)
  • Ladislav nemet (Serbia)

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, who stands for the progressive wing, and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who is known for his diplomatic work. Zuppi is also a suitable Italian candidate, recognized for his diplomatic skill and his peace efforts in Ukraine.

election processes and historical perspective

The election process will begin after Pope Francis' burial, whereby the conclave has the task of choosing the new head of the church in a secret vote. The date for this will be determined at the earliest 14 and no later than 20 days after the Pope's death. The outcome of a complaining is often surprising, which reinforces the uncertainty of the process.

Historically speaking, concrete played an important role in Roman Catholic history. For example, decisive elections such as the election of Pope John Paul II in 1978 or the election of Pope Francis 2013 took place in the Sistine chapel. This tradition underlines the important connection between the past and the present in the election of the head of the Catholic Church.

In summary, the dying of Pope Francis is a drastic event for the Catholic Church, and the coming weeks will be crucial for who will take over the leadership of over one billion believers.

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Wikipedia provides historical data for past papal elections.

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