5 cardinals likely to succeed Pope Francis 

According to Vanguard, The death of Pope Francis at 88 has sparked intense speculation about who will assume spiritual leadership of the Roman Catholic Church.

The pontiff, who faced ongoing health struggles, including a recent battle with double pneumonia, had long prompted discussions about succession.

His passing, confirmed a day after addressing the faithful at St. Peter’s Basilica, now shifts focus to the College of Cardinals, where a papal conclave will soon gather to elect his successor.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, Italy’s Vatican Secretary of State since 2013, is a leading candidate. Renowned for his diplomatic skill, Parolin has navigated global crises while maintaining a neutral theological stance.

He recently stressed inclusive peace strategies, cautioning against “unilateral impositions” that disregard people’s rights. His experience and moderation position him as a unifying choice.

Cardinal Peter Erdö, 72, from Hungary, is a conservative stalwart. A canon law scholar and former head of Europe’s bishops’ conferences, Erdö staunchly upholds traditional teachings, notably opposing Communion for divorced and remarried Catholics.

His comparison of the refugee crisis to human trafficking stirred controversy, yet his doctrinal rigor appeals to traditionalists.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, from the Philippines, carries forward Pope Francis’s progressive vision.

As Pro-Prefect for the Section of First Evangelization, Tagle, elevated by Benedict XVI, is known for his compassionate outreach.

He has critiqued the Church’s historical treatment of marginalized groups, like gay people and single mothers. As a potential first Asian pope, Tagle represents a historic, inclusive shift.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, 69, an Italian and Francis ally, is celebrated for his peacemaking and social advocacy. Leading the Italian Episcopal Conference, Zuppi has undertaken Vatican missions in conflict zones like Ukraine and engaged leaders like U.S. President Joe Biden.

His welcoming stance toward the LGBTQ community and focus on a listening Church make him a progressive frontrunner.

Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke, 76, an American, champions traditionalist Catholicism.

Elevated by Benedict XVI, Burke has openly challenged Francis’s reforms, opposing Communion for pro-choice politicians and resisting changes in teachings on contraception and civil unions.

Though divisive, he draws support from conservatives seeking a return to doctrinal orthodoxy.