With speculation about the future of the papacy growing, nine different names have been raised as possible successors to Pope Francis. Influential cardinals and bishops in the Catholic Church are among them. Each individual comes to the table with a distinct background and collaborative vision. This article takes a look at these frontrunners, their qualifications and experience, and what they – individually and collectively – bring to the Church.
Of those considered likely candidates, cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana is the most prominent. Since that time, after being elevated to cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2003, he has become one of the leading voices in the Church. Francis Kofi Awoonor Turkson… Turkson is currently 75 years old. In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him to run the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, one of many other important positions he occupied throughout his career. His deep history in pushing the church on a range of social justice issues over decades puts him at the top of the list.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle has emerged as one of the top contenders. In 2019, Pope Francis moved Tagle out of Manila. That decision has led him to take up this new role in order to gain experience working in the Vatican. He’s now at the helm of the Church’s front line in clamoring to engage and evangelize to communities across the world. His engaging and personable leadership style and electric charisma may help him appeal to younger members who crave a more relatable pontiff like their predecessor.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi of Bologna has become a dark horse candidate. Often referred to as the Italian Francis, Zuppi was personally named a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2019 and is recognized for his humility and focus on social issues. He has actively engaged with marginalized communities, advocating for the poor and taking steps to embrace the LGBTQ+ community within the Church. His compassionate pastoral approach sits at the heart of what Francis envisions for a more inclusive Church.
Cardinal Peter Turkson: A Voice for Justice
Cardinal Turkson’s tenure within the Catholic Church has been shaped by his concern for social justice. He was made cardinal at 55 years of age. Almost from Day One, he became a key navigator of two herculean global challenges, fighting poverty and climate change while anchoring human rights principles. His leadership of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace provided him with a platform to advocate for the voiceless and call for systemic changes within society.
During his remarkable decade-long tenure, Turkson relentlessly pushed the Church to join the world on difficult dialogues. He underscored the critical importance of fostering conversations surrounding justice and peace. He explains movingly what the moral dangers of economic inequality and environmental devastation are. He challenges church leaders and laypeople alike to engage with him in productive conversation. Most importantly, his unwavering commitment to these issues is what makes him such a great candidate. He has an incredible opportunity to promote compassion and advocacy as hallmarks of the Church.
Additionally, Turkson’s long experience in many international fora has given him a different and outside perspective on the challenges of global governance. His ability to navigate these challenges could prove invaluable as he seeks to lead the Catholic Church in a rapidly changing world.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle: A Missionary Leader
Cardinal Tagle’s deep commitment to evangelization and pastoral care is further demonstrated by his elevation to a prominent role within the Vatican. He brings that same passion to leading the Church’s missionary arm. He focuses on outreach and boots-on-the-ground service to truly underserved communities. His integrity is what speaks to millions who feel the Church needs to focus on its true mission to elevate the voices on the margins.
As archbishop of Manila, Tagle gained international stature for his pastoral sensitivity and profound theological depth. He was a master at outreach, engaging with people of all backgrounds. Not surprisingly, Pope Francis viewed his move to Rome as a tactical victory. This decision was meant to give him the right experience to lead the church from within the Vatican.
Tagle’s emphasis on inclusivity aligns with Pope Francis’ vision for a more welcoming Church. He advocates for inclusion of young people on the front lines, and for increasing understanding through interfaith dialogues. This makes him the only candidate equipped to further these ideals on an international stage.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi: A Champion of Humility
Cardinal Zuppi’s rise through the ranks of the Church has gained more attention for his commitment to humility and social justice. In the midst of this, in 2019 Pope Francis made Zuppi a cardinal. Since then, he has proven to be the fiercest warrior for those most vulnerable. It’s his eagerness and ability to meet and connect with people from all different backgrounds that makes him unique as a leader. He believes compassion should trump hierarchy.
Zuppi’s advocacy for the poor and marginalized communities has earned him recognition as a voice for those often overlooked by societal structures. He has been a vocal advocate for initiatives that empower refugees and minorities. This inner disposition, a spirit of service, embodies the ethos that Pope Francis has promoted since the early days of his papacy.
Moreover, Zuppi’s outreach to members of the LGBTQ+ community signals an important step towards greater acceptance and inclusivity within the Church. A lot of folks resonate with that style. Like many progressive Catholics, they feel that a more open and accepting Church is essential to keeping the Church relevant in today’s society.
Cardinal Juan José Omella: A Progressive Voice
Cardinal Omella’s idea for the Church is a greater role for laypeople in Church traditions. He is fiercely opposed to Spain’s efforts to reform abortion rights. His beliefs offer an unusual window into a social agenda that strikes a chord within his highly-urbanized community. His hope is that by involving more laypeople in eucharistic and liturgical celebrations, dispersed eucharistic communities can renew parish life and reaffirm local communities’ commitments to one another.
He stresses the importance of partnership among the clergy and lay leaders. This strategy reflects a wider desire within the Church to embrace decentralization and shared leadership. Omella’s approach on the other hand has the potential to build a more participatory, inclusive and deliberative model of governance. That’s precisely the model that today’s congregations demand of their leaders.
Furthermore, Omella’s ability to navigate complex social issues while maintaining respect for traditional values positions him as a candidate capable of bridging divides within the Church. Through his leadership style, you can see his openness to dialogue, creating a safe space that allows for differing perspectives to thrive.
Cardinal Joseph Tobin: A Respected Leader
Cardinal Tobin is considered one of Pope Francis’ most vociferous supporters among American bishops. It is his steadfast faithfulness to Francis’ dream for the Church that has granted him the most esteem, both at home and abroad. Tobin’s leadership style emphasizes pastoral care and inclusivity, making him a trusted candidate for those seeking continuity in Francis’ mission.
Through a competitive lens, Tobin addresses urgent social issues such as immigration reform and racial equality. His actions over a lifetime speak volumes about his commitment to justice and service. He actively advocates for policies that align with Catholic social teaching, positioning himself as a voice for those advocating systemic change.
His history of work among various communities highlights his spirit of creating bridges instead of walls. This approach resonates with many who envision a future where the Church actively engages with society on pressing issues.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin: A Diplomatic Force
Cardinal Parolin has more than 20 years of experience in international affairs. His expertise will be invaluable in helping the Church navigate complex and ever-shifting geopolitical landscapes. Since 2009 Parolin has been the Vatican’s ambassador in Venezuela. He enthusiastically walks the line of difficult diplomatic relations and is always an advocate for human rights.
Parolin has been the chief architect of the Vatican’s diplomatic outreach to both China and Vietnam. In so doing, he has demonstrated his uncommon talent for building positive rapport even with countries that have historically clashed with Catholic doctrine. His diplomatic acumen makes him the kind of candidate who can both build the Church’s global standing and presence and confront some of the more modern challenges.
Parolin’s expertise extends beyond diplomacy. His deep understanding of international relations allows him to engage effectively with world leaders on behalf of the Church. His quiet confidence and thoughtful craft go a long way in helping make space for open conversation on some of the most pressing topics that concern humanity today.
Bishop Eric Aveline: An Emerging Leader
It’s no secret that Bishop Eric Aveline has been stealing the show as one of Pope Francis’ go-to bishops. This award significantly boosts his future prospects of advancing within the Church. Known for his pastoral sensitivity and ability to relate to people from diverse backgrounds, Aveline’s leadership style aligns closely with Francis’ vision of a more compassionate and accessible Church.
Aveline’s recent elevation to archbishop of Marseille does much to cement his influence among ecclesiastical high circles. Through his emphasis on strengthening community connections and advancing social justice projects, Harris has demonstrated a commitment to Francis’ key teachings.
The bishop’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment within churches resonates deeply with many who feel marginalized or excluded from traditional practices. Aveline embodies a progressive vision that seeks to engage all members of society while promoting core Catholic values.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa: The Humble Shepherd
Cardinal Pizzaballa’s humble beginnings can be seen through his vision of leadership within the Church. Fondly remembered as relishing “a simple country life,” his rural Ohio upbringing shaped his passion for serving others. He took a very deliberate, conscious decision from an early age to enter the priesthood. This decision led him down a path defined by long-form pastoral care and deep engagement with Wilmington’s community.
Pizzaballa’s past experiences, including serving in Palestine, have deeply shaped his approach to ministry, making him focused on accessibility and connection with his parishioners. His leadership style blends traditional values with modern sensibilities, making him relatable to contemporary audiences seeking solace within their faith.
Pizzaballa is a strong advocate for dialogue between different communities. His devotion to creating community over walls is a perfect match with Pope Francis’ beautiful message of mercy and welcome.
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