Conclave to Elect New Pope Commences May 7

A new Pope will be elected via a conclave, which involves a secret voting system.

This was initially supposed to hold on May 5 but was delayed for two days to help the cardinal electors get to know one another better and find consensus on a candidate before they are sequestered in the Sistine Chapel.

The cardinals set the date after arriving for the first day of informal meetings following Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday.

The College of Cardinals that will elect a new pope includes members from far-flung corners of the globe whom Pope Francis named over his 12-year papacy to bring in new points of views of the Catholic Church hierarchy.

According to reports, 135 cardinal electors — 108 of whom were appointed by the late Pope Francis — don’t know each other very well.

The last 20 were appointed in early December.

Only cardinals under 80 are eligible to vote, and it is not clear how many of the 135 will participate.

Some candidates have emerged and Business Post has gathered from several sources of the possible candidates that could emerge as the new Pope.

Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, is recognized for his diplomatic skills and is viewed as a moderate who could continue Pope Francis’ policies, although his involvement in a €200 million investment scandal may affect his candidacy.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, also from Italy, serves as the Archbishop of Bologna and is known for his focus on inclusivity and social justice, aligning closely with Francis’ pastoral approach.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, has demonstrated a commitment to interfaith dialogue and peace efforts in the Middle East, and his selection would make him the youngest pope since John Paul II.

From the Philippines, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is considered a rising star within the Church, known for his humility and compassionate outreach, particularly towards marginalized communities.

Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea is a prominent conservative voice, advocating for traditional Catholic teachings and liturgical practices, appealing to those seeking a return to doctrinal orthodoxy.

Hungarian Cardinal Péter Erdő is another leading conservative candidate, noted for his strong doctrinal stance and experience within the Church’s hierarchy.

Swedish Cardinal Anders Arborelius, the Bishop of Stockholm, is the first cardinal from Scandinavia and is known for his ecumenical efforts and commitment to dialogue within the Church.

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is an outspoken critic of liberal teachings within the Church, representing a conservative perspective from the Global South.

Dutch Cardinal Wim Eijk, a former medical doctor, is known for his conservative views, particularly on issues related to marriage and family, and his opposition to Pope Francis’ liberal approach.