Who Could Be the Next Pope? 10 Contenders to Watch

When a new Pope is elected, it’s not just a big deal for Catholics—it’s a global event that shapes religious, social, and even political landscapes. With Pope Francis now in his late 80s, whispers about his successor are growing louder. So, who might step into those famous red shoes next? Let’s break down the top 10 contenders—each with their own vision for leading the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.

1. Cardinal Pietro Parolin: The Vatican Insider

If you want someone who knows the Vatican inside out, look no further than Italy’s Cardinal Pietro Parolin. As the current Secretary of State, he’s basically the Pope’s right-hand man on global diplomacy. He’d likely keep the Church’s focus on international relations, but critics wonder if he’d bring enough fresh ideas to the table. After all, sometimes an insider can be *too* familiar with the system.

2. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle: The People’s Pope

Imagine a Pope who’s as comfortable chatting with street vendors as he is debating theology. That’s Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines. His warm, relatable style has made him a favorite, especially among younger Catholics hungry for change. But here’s the catch: his lack of deep Vatican experience might make some cardinals hesitate. Still, if the Church wants a leader who can connect with everyday believers, Tagle could be the one.

3. Cardinal Peter Erdő: The Traditionalist Scholar

Hungary’s Cardinal Peter Erdő is the kind of guy who knows canon law backward and forward—literally. A constitutional lawyer by training, he’s a staunch defender of tradition, which could reassure conservatives wary of rapid change. But if you’re hoping for a more progressive Church, Erdő might not be your pick. Then again, in a world where moral debates are heating up, his legal mind could be exactly what the Vatican needs.

4. Cardinal Robert Sarah: The Uncompromising Traditionalist

If you thought Erdő was traditional, meet Cardinal Robert Sarah from Guinea. He’s been vocal about bringing back Latin Mass and resisting modern reforms. For Catholics who miss the old ways, Sarah could be a dream come true. But for those pushing for inclusivity and social justice? Let’s just say his papacy might feel like hitting the brakes hard.

5. Cardinal Christoph Schönborn: The Bridge Builder

Austria’s Cardinal Christoph Schönborn is often seen as the Goldilocks candidate—not too conservative, not too progressive, but just right. He’s got the theological chops to satisfy scholars and the pastoral heart to connect with regular folks. The downside? Middle-ground leaders sometimes struggle to make bold moves. If the Church needs a unifying figure, though, Schönborn could be it.

6. Cardinal Marc Ouellet: The Vatican’s Organizational Guru

Canada’s Cardinal Marc Ouellet has spent years shaping the Church’s leadership as head of the Congregation for Bishops. If the next Pope needs to streamline Vatican operations, Ouellet’s the guy. But his strong conservative leanings might ruffle feathers among reform-minded Catholics. Still, in a time of institutional challenges, his administrative skills could be invaluable.

7. Cardinal Leonardo Sandri: The Steady Hand

Another Vatican veteran, Argentina’s Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, is known for keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes. He’d likely continue Pope Francis’s Latin American influence, but some worry he’d be more of a caretaker than a change-maker. Then again, after a whirlwind papacy like Francis’s, maybe a little stability wouldn’t hurt.

8. Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich: The Progressive Voice

Luxembourg’s Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. A Jesuit like Pope Francis, he’s big on social justice and reaching out to young people. That could energize parts of the Church—but it might also clash with traditionalists. If the cardinals want to double down on reform, Hollerich could be their man.

9. Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki: The Middle Path

Germany’s Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki is another moderate, balancing tradition with modern realities. He’s weathered controversies (including criticism over handling abuse cases), which could either toughen him for leadership or make him a risky choice. Still, in a divided Church, a mediator might be exactly what’s needed.

10. Cardinal Angelo Scola: The Intellectual Heavyweight

Italian Cardinal Angelo Scola is one of the Church’s top thinkers, with a knack for deep theological debates. His leadership could bring rich intellectual discussions—but at 82, his age might be a hurdle. Popes often serve for life, and the cardinals may prefer someone younger for a long-term vision.

So, Who’s the Best Fit?

Picking a Pope isn’t like electing a president—there’s no campaigning, no debates, just prayer, deliberation, and a whole lot of secrecy. Each of these cardinals brings something different: some offer continuity, others demand change. Some are diplomats, others are scholars or pastors. The real question is: What kind of Church does the world need now?

One thing’s for sure—whoever emerges from the Sistine Chapel’s famous white smoke will shape Catholicism for decades to come. And with challenges like declining attendance, social justice debates, and global conflicts, the next Pope’s job won’t be easy. But then again, when has it ever been?