The death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, marked the beginning of a transition period within the Catholic Church. This transition will culminate with the Papal Conclave set to commence on the next May 7. The vacant papacy not only raises questions about the future of the Church but also carries significant global political implications.
The 2025 Papal Conclave unfolds considerable polarization within the Church, with different ideological positions at play. On one side, there are the supporters of Church reformism. In this sense, under Francis’ leadership, the Church has seen efforts toward greater openness in addressing several issues. These include the role of women, divorced Catholics, and the Church’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Francis’ progressive vision has also focused on environment and poverty, advocating for a global approach to these issues. On the other side, conservative factions consider these changes as too radical and focus in maintaining traditional doctrines.
Key Candidates in the Running
As the Conclave approaches, several key candidates are emerging, each representing different aspects of the ideological spectrum within the Church. Among the most talked-about names is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. Parolin is seen as the compromise candidate, someone capable of uniting the Church’s divided factions. His diplomatic experience and role in managing Vatican relations with both global powers like the US and China, give him a strong base of support. Another prominent contender is Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the Archbishop of Manila. Tagle is viewed as a charismatic and progressive figure, closely aligned with Pope Francis’ vision of a Church focused on social justice. Another influential candidate is Cardinal Ernest Besungu of Congo. Besungu represents a new generation of African Church leaders who are gaining prominence in the Vatican. His candidacy brings with it a focus on the global South, highlighting issues such as the Church’s role in addressing poverty, health crises, and economic inequality.
A Crucial Conclave for the Church and Its Global Influence
The death of Pope Francis and the upcoming Conclave represent a decisive moment for the Catholic Church, one that will not only shape its future but also its role on the global stage. The Church’s future direction, whether it continues down the path of reform laid by Pope Francis or shifts back toward traditionalism, will impact its influence on geopolitical issues ranging from global poverty to climate change. The 2025 Conclave is thus not only an ecclesiastical event but also a moment for reflection on the Church’s role in shaping global affairs in the 21st century.
Sources :
https://tg24.sky.it/mondo/approfondimenti/conclave-2025-quando-inizia