On April 21, 2025, the world awoke to the news that Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, had passed away at the age of 88. His death, though expected due to his recent health struggles, marks the end of a papacy that was as transformative as it was challenging.

The Legacy of Pope Francis

Pope Francis was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Global South, and the first non-European to hold the papacy in over a millennium. Elected in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Francis quickly set a tone of humility and simplicity. He rejected the papal palace for modest quarters, emphasized service over status, and frequently reminded the Church to be “a field hospital for the wounded.”

His Key Legacies:

• A Church of the Poor: Francis sought to shift the Church’s focus toward social justice, economic inequality, and care for the marginalized.
• Environmental Advocacy: His encyclical Laudato Si’ was a global call to action on climate change, rooted in both science and theology.
• Synodality and Inclusion: He opened up global synods to deeper listening and greater participation, especially from laypeople and women.
• Bridging East and West: Francis made significant efforts to reach out to the Orthodox churches, Islamic leaders, and even the atheist world, portraying the papacy as a platform for dialogue, not division.

Yet, his papacy was not without controversy.

The Challenges He Faced

Pope Francis inherited a Church rocked by scandal, polarization, and a shrinking influence in secularized societies.

• Sexual Abuse Crisis: While he took steps to address abuse and enforce accountability, critics felt he moved too slowly and hesitated in confronting entrenched institutional culture.
• Doctrinal Tensions: His pastoral leniency—especially on issues like communion for the divorced and remarried—sparked pushback from conservative cardinals.
• Internal Resistance: Within the Curia, efforts to reform finances and structures were met with inertia or subtle sabotage. Yet he pressed on, famously warning Vatican insiders against “spiritual Alzheimer’s” and careerism.
• Global Fragmentation: As global Catholicism grew more diverse—demographically and theologically—Francis emphasized unity without uniformity, a challenging task in an increasingly polarized world.

Despite this, he remained a steady voice for over a decade.

Who Will Follow? The Frontrunners—and the Unknowns

With Pope Francis now laid to rest, the College of Cardinals will convene in the coming days to elect the next pope. While the process is steeped in prayer, tradition, and secrecy, analysts have identified several frontrunners.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy is widely respected for his diplomatic acumen as the Vatican’s Secretary of State. He brings deep institutional experience and a calm, steady hand in global affairs. However, he is sometimes seen as too reserved or bureaucratic, lacking the charismatic presence many seek in a modern pope.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines is known for his warmth, eloquence, and global popularity. Often described as “the Asian Francis,” his pastoral approach and media-friendly presence make him a compelling figure. Still, his perceived closeness to Pope Francis and prior management challenges in Caritas Internationalis may lead some cardinals to hesitate.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi of Italy is a bridge-builder and advocate for peace, respected for his leadership in both ecclesial and political circles. His involvement in international peace efforts and emphasis on compassion position him as a continuity candidate. Yet, his progressive image might not sit well with more conservative electors.

Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich of Luxembourg is a Jesuit with sharp intellect and a deep understanding of European affairs. As president of COMECE, he brings a sophisticated grasp of EU dynamics. However, his openness to revisiting Church teachings may alienate more traditional factions.

Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana has long been a prophetic voice on social justice, environment, and global inequities. He commands global respect, particularly in the Global South. Nonetheless, his advanced age and some internal controversies during his Vatican tenure may dim his prospects.

Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea is revered by traditionalists for his doctrinal clarity and liturgical conservatism. A fierce defender of persecuted Christians, he could anchor the Church in orthodoxy. Yet, his strong conservative stance may polarize the conclave.

But history reminds us: the next pope is not always the frontrunner. In 2013, very few observers predicted the election of Jorge Bergoglio. And yet, it was he who emerged from the Sistine Chapel balcony as Pope Francis.

Geopolitical Crossroads: The Next Pope’s New World

The pope is not just the Bishop of Rome; he is a global religious statesman. The next pontiff will inherit a world in flux—and a Church that must navigate through rapidly shifting tides.

1. Europe’s Fragile Unity

With the U.S. becoming increasingly isolationist, Europe is left to face rising Russian aggression on its own. The next pope will need to be a voice for moral clarity and continental unity, encouraging Europe to reclaim not just political cooperation but a shared spiritual heritage.

2. Sharia Law and Cultural Tensions

Across parts of Europe, the growing Muslim population has led to calls for recognition of Sharia-based parallel legal systems. The new pope will have to navigate interreligious relations with both diplomatic grace and doctrinal firmness, defending the religious freedom of all while protecting Christian identity.

3. Global Persecution of Christians

From the Middle East to Africa and even parts of Asia, Christians are increasingly persecuted, discriminated against, and even martyred. The next pope will need to be an unflinching advocate for the persecuted Christians (Catholics, in particular), pressing global leaders to act while strengthening the Church’s support systems on the ground.

4. The Rise of New Empires

China’s economic dominance, Russia’s militarism, and a fragmented West point to the emergence of competing “blocs” of influence. The Catholic Church, uniquely global and transnational, will need to be a bridge-builder and a moral compass in a divided age.

God Is Sovereign

While cardinals may deliberate, campaign informally, and weigh personalities and programs, the ultimate decision lies beyond their human plans.

“For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” — Romans 13:1 (ESV)

Throughout history, God has raised up kings, emperors, and yes—even popes—to accomplish His divine purpose. The next pope, whoever he is, will be stepping into a role far greater than himself.