Power Shift In The Church: Full List Of 15 Men Who Could Be The Next Pope

The funeral Mass was held on April 26, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square and was presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. The event drew dignitaries and mourners from around the world.

Following the ceremony, Pope Francis was laid to rest in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, in accordance with his wishes. He specifically requested to be buried near the Salus Populi Romani icon, a symbol of deep personal devotion.
This burial marked the first time since 1903 that a pope was interred outside the Vatican.

The College of Cardinals will convene on May 7, 2025, in the Sistine Chapel to begin the conclave to elect his successor. A total of 133 cardinal electors under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. The election will proceed with prayer and discernment until a candidate secures the required two-thirds majority.

Leading Contenders for the Papacy

Among the frontrunners are Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. Tagle is widely known for his pastoral compassion and progressive views, including support for marginalized groups such as migrants and LGBTQ+ individuals. However, his tenure has not been without administrative criticisms.

Parolin, a seasoned diplomat, played a central role in the 2018 Vatican-China agreement. While praised for his diplomatic acumen, the deal has been controversial, attracting criticism for perceived compromises.

Both cardinals, along with others, have faced scrutiny in the wider context of how the Church has historically addressed abuse cases—an issue that continues to shape discourse around Church leadership.

As is customary, there is no official list of candidates, and formal campaigning is prohibited. Nevertheless, Vatican observers have identified 15 prominent cardinals—referred to as papabili—from Europe, Asia, and Africa, who are considered serious contenders to succeed Pope Francis.

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