Daijiworld Media Network – Vatican City

Vatican City, Apr 22: With the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88, attention now turns to the process of electing his successor, a task that rests with the College of Cardinals. The conclave, to be held at the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, is expected to commence in the coming days.

Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. Of the 252 serving cardinals, 138 currently qualify to cast their ballot. The election will be conducted in strict secrecy, in keeping with the 700-year-old tradition of the Church.

The conclave will involve multiple rounds of voting, with each cardinal writing the name of their chosen candidate on a paper ballot and placing it into a chalice on the altar. A two-thirds majority is required for election. The ballots are then burned in a special stove—black smoke indicating no decision, and white smoke confirming that a new pope has been chosen.

Once elected, the chosen candidate dons a white cassock, takes a new papal name, and steps onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, where the announcement “Habemus Papam” (We have a pope) is made.

Likely successors

Although papal contenders do not campaign, some cardinals are being seen as frontrunners:

Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy):
Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013, Parolin is the highest-ranking cardinal in the conclave. Known for his diplomatic skills and steady leadership, he is viewed as a strong contender.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy):
Regarded as close to Pope Francis, Zuppi has been active in peace missions, including one to Ukraine. He is seen as progressive and supportive of more inclusive Church practices.

Cardinal Peter Erdo (Hungary):
A theological conservative, Erdo is known for his firm stance against remarriage and divorce. His traditionalist views could appeal to more orthodox elements in the conclave.

Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA):
A vocal critic of Pope Francis on issues like same-sex relationships and Church liberalism, Burke’s hardline conservative position and past confrontations with the Vatican may influence his chances.

Background

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a significant global figure, died just a day after delivering his Easter message at St Peter’s Square. His death marks the end of a 12-year papacy during which he was known for progressive reforms, social justice advocacy, and efforts to modernise the Church.

The conclave that now follows is a moment of immense importance for the Church, as the cardinals must choose a spiritual leader who will guide the Catholic faithful through an increasingly complex and divided global landscape.