The April 21 death of Pope Francis triggered a period of mourning in the Catholic Church, but also kick-started the race for his successor.
The April 21 death of Pope Francis triggered a period of mourning in the Catholic Church, but also kick-started the race for his successor.
Whether diplomats, theologians, mediators or Vatican insiders, here are 15 cardinals who are among the potential favourites to become the next pope, known as the "papabili", divided by region.
This list however is by no means exhaustive and Francis's successor could well be someone else.
EUROPE
Pietro Parolin (Italy), 70, Vatican Secretary of State
The Vatican's chief diplomat, Parolin has been the number two at the Vatican during nearly all of Francis's papacy.
He is known to many world leaders, having travelled the globe, but also to many inside the Roman Curia, the government of the Holy See.
A member of Francis's Council of Cardinals, an advisory body, Parolin played a key role in the historic 2018 deal between the Holy See and China on the appointment of bishops.
0 Comments