Tributes have begun to flood in following the Vatican’s confirmation of Pope Francis’ death at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican’s camerlengo, announced that the Pope passed away on Monday morning.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to serving the Lord and the Church,” Farrell said. “He taught us to live the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and boundless love — especially for the poor and the marginalized.”
Pope Francis was the first ever Jesuit pope and a vocal champion of the world’s poor, dispossessed and
Just a day before, Pope Francis made his final public appearance in a wheelchair, waving from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica during the Easter Sunday celebrations. While he greeted the crowds with “Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter,” his formal Easter message was delivered by another clergy member.
Last month, the Pope had been discharged from hospital after a five-week battle with double pneumonia.
The World Awaits the Next Pope
With Pope Francis now gone, all eyes turn to the Vatican, where cardinals are gathering in Rome for the Papal Conclave. The next pontiff could represent a major shift in the Church. Will the world see its first Black or Asian Pope?
Here are the top contenders:
Peter Turkson (76) – Ghana
Turkson was once the bookmakers’ favorite during the 2013 conclave. As a moderate voice on issues like gay rights, and having served as a peace envoy to South Sudan, he would be the first Black Pope.
Luis Antonio Tagle (67) – Philippines
Tagle, the former Archbishop of Manila, is one of the frontrunners. As a liberal voice in the Church, he would be the first Asian Pope. Though opposing abortion in the Philippines, he has called for greater compassion toward gay and divorced couples.
Pietro Parolin (70) – Italy
A close collaborator of Pope Francis, Parolin is seen as a continuity candidate. However, his 2018 deal with China and conservative stance on same-sex marriage have divided opinions.
Peter Erdo (72) – Hungary
A staunch conservative from Eastern Europe, Erdo has spoken out against divorced and remarried Catholics receiving communion. He would be the second Pope from the former Soviet bloc.
Jose Tolentino de Mendonça (59) – Portugal
Seen as the “young” candidate, Tolentino has held several Vatican positions. He believes the Church should engage with modern culture, encouraging scholars to embrace art, music, and film.
Matteo Zuppi (69) – Italy
Appointed cardinal in 2019, Zuppi is the Vatican’s peace envoy to Ukraine. While he has made efforts to promote peace, his diplomacy with Russia has shown limited progress.
Mario Grech (68) – Malta
Grech advocates for a more inclusive Church and has called for a new approach when addressing gay couples and divorcees, though he’s also seen as traditionally rooted.
Robert Sarah (79) – Guinea
A conservative figure, Sarah has warned against gender ideology and Islamic fundamentalism. Though experienced, his age may work against him in the selection process.
