In the midst of mourning within the Church and the broader global community, conversations are shifting toward identifying potential successors for Pope Francis.
A key figure in these discussions is Peter Turkson, 76, from Ghana.
An official conclave of cardinals responsible for electing the new pope is expected to convene in the next two to three weeks.
Should Turkson be chosen, it would represent a momentous occasion for the Church, as he would become the first Black pope in several centuries.
Turkson has actively advocated for critical global challenges, including poverty, climate change, and economic fairness.
While he maintains the Church’s traditional stances on subjects such as marriage and the priesthood, he has shown a readiness to address current issues, particularly in promoting more flexible laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights in various African countries.
Pope Francis has entrusted Turkson with significant diplomatic roles, notably appointing him as a peace envoy to South Sudan.
Given his origins in a rapidly expanding Catholic region, along with his global perspective and strong ethical values, Turkson stands out as a prominent candidate for the leadership of the Church.
In addition to Peter Turkson, other notable figures under consideration to succeed Pope Francis include:
Pietro Parolin, 70
Pietro Parolin, an Italian, is regarded as a leading candidate. As the Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013, he has played a crucial role in Vatican diplomacy, facilitating sensitive discussions with countries such as China and several nations in the Middle East.
Péter Erdő, 72
Péter Erdő, from Hungary, represents the conservative segment of the Church. A respected academic and former president of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences, he has consistently advocated for traditional Catholic doctrines and teachings.
Matteo Zuppi, 69
Matteo Zuppi, an Italian, is known for his pastoral philosophy and dedication to peace, particularly through his longstanding association with the Sant’Egidio Community. His emphasis on social justice and dialogue has positioned him as a central mediator within the Church.
Luis Antonio Tagle, 67
Luis Antonio Tagle, hailing from the Philippines, is another significant candidate. As the former Archbishop of Manila, he would signify a historic achievement as the first Asian pope, reflecting the increasing Catholic population in Asia.
José Tolentino Calaça de Mendonça, 59
José Tolentino Calaça de Mendonça, a 59-year-old theologian, poet, and writer from Portugal, has been gaining prominence in both intellectual and spiritual circles. His contemplative writing style and engagement with contemporary culture have garnered him respect across different factions of the Church.
Mario Grech, 68
Mario Grech, aged 68 and from Malta, currently serves as the Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, closely aligning with Pope Francis’ vision of fostering a more inclusive and consultative Church.
Pierbattista Pizzaballa, 60
Pierbattista Pizzaballa, 60, is the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and has extensive experience in interfaith dialogue, dedicating much of his ministry to navigating the complex religious and political landscape of the Holy Land.
