Last Updated on April 21, 2025 by Mrunal & Jiten
April 21, 2025 | Rome — With Pope Francis’ passing at the age of 88, the global spotlight has shifted to the Vatican, where 128 cardinals now carry the weighty responsibility of selecting the next leader of the Catholic Church.
The process is as historic as it is secretive: a sacred gathering known as the Conclave will soon take place in the Sistine Chapel, where the doors will be locked, and no outside communication is allowed until a new pope is chosen.
🔍 What Happens Now?
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Only cardinals under the age of 80 are allowed to vote — that’s 128 eligible cardinals from every continent, with a significant portion from developing countries. This signals a likely continuation of Pope Francis’ legacy: a focus on inclusivity, climate action, and care for the poor.
“The election of a pope is not just a Catholic event — it’s a global moment,” says Vatican analyst Marco Politi.
Could the Next Pope Come from Africa or Asia?
There’s growing speculation that the next pope could be from Africa or Asia — potentially marking a historic shift in church leadership after centuries of European dominance.
Some frontrunners include:
- Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana) – known for his work on climate change.
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) – a favorite of many progressive Catholics.
Why This Matters to the World
The Pope influences over 1.3 billion Catholics globally and plays a major role in global diplomacy, humanitarian efforts, and even climate policy.
What Is the Conclave Like?
During the conclave:
- Cardinals take a vow of secrecy.
- They vote up to 4 times a day.
- White smoke signals a new pope has been chosen.
Until then, the world waits — with curiosity, hope, and a sense of historical importance.
This story is developing. Stay tuned for live updates from the Vatican and analysis on who could become the next spiritual leader of the world’s largest religious institution.
