Pope Francis Dies at 88: Who Will Be the Next Pope?

Pope Francis Passes Away at 88: A Legacy of Compassion and Reform

Apr 21, 2025 Komal Das

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, has died at the age of 88 after a 12-year papacy, the Vatican confirmed on April 21

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The process to elect the new pope begins with a conclave; only 138 cardinals under the age of 80 out of 253 total are eligible to vote

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In 2023, Pope Francis raised the number of cardinal electors from 120 to 138, overriding a long-standing rule by Pope Paul VI

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Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy), Vatican Secretary of State, is a leading contender with a diplomatic, moderate style aligned with Francis

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Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (DR Congo) is a conservative African leader who blocked the blessing of same-sex couples in Africa

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Cardinal Wim Eijk (Netherlands) is a former doctor and one of the most conservative candidates, critical of Francis’ reforms

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Cardinal Peter Erdo (Hungary), a traditionalist, opposes communion for remarried Catholics and has taken a strict stance on immigration

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Other top contenders include progressive Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) and conservative Cardinal Raymond Burke (USA)

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