Catholic Christian religious leader Pope Francis died on monday (21 april 2025) at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell confirmed his death. A day earlier, the Pope met two Vatican officials and thanked well-wishers for their prayers and support. After the death of Pope Francis, discussions have intensified about his successor. Many prominent cardinals are being considered as potential candidates for this.
These names are at the forefront in the race for successor
Cardinal Pietro Parolin's name is considered to be at the forefront in the race for Pope Francis' successor. Pietro, a resident of Italy, has been one of Pope Francis' most trusted aides for the last decade. 70-year-old Pietro has been leading the diplomacy and administration of the Vatican as home Secretary (Secretary of State) since 2013. His role in global diplomacy and his experience in the Vatican's Curia make him a strong contender.
Cardinal Peter Erdo and Peter Turkson
Hungary's Cardinal Peter Erdo is also being seen as Pope Francis' successor. He has been the former president of the Bishops' Conference of Europe. He currently holds the post of Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest. Ghana's Cardinal Peter Turkson is also being considered as the Pope's successor. He has been the former head of the Council for Justice and Peace.
These names including Cardinal Luis Tagle are also in the race
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, who is from the Philippines, is also being named as Pope Francis' successor. His commitment to social justice and the poor matches Francis' ideology. He is a strong contender as a non-European Pope. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, who is from Italy, is also ahead in this race. Zuppi is the Archbishop of Bologna and a prominent member of the Saint Egidio community. He has been active in social work and peace mediation.
Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke is also a front-runner in the race to succeed Pope Francis. He was made a cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. Apart from him, Gerhard Muller, Angelo Scola, Angelo Bagnasco and Robert Sarah can also be the successors of Pope Francis.
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