Vatican Prepares for May Conclave to Elect Next Pope

Following the passing of Pope Francis in April 2025, 133 cardinals will gather in a secretive Vatican conclave to select his successor, with a two-thirds majority needed for election. The field of contenders is considered wide open, though speculation centers on a diverse group of leaders from different regions and theological backgrounds. Among the European frontrunners is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, known for his diplomatic skills and moderate stance. Notably, three African cardinals—Peter Turkson of Ghana, Robert Sarah of Guinea, and Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of the Democratic Republic of Congo—are also seen as strong candidates, reflecting the Church’s growing global reach. The new pope is expected to balance inclusivity and tradition, as cardinals weigh whether to continue Francis’s progressive legacy or return to a more conservative approach. The outcome will signal the Catholic Church’s direction on issues such as LGBTQ+ inclusion, migration, and global diplomacy.