The world is mourning the passing of Pope Francis, but for the Roman Catholic Church, a new chapter is already beginning—one that centers on the selection of the next leader of the 1.4 billion-member faith. As the Vatican prepares for the pope’s burial, the attention now turns to the College of Cardinals, the body responsible for electing the next pontiff.
While the conclave is shrouded in centuries-old secrecy, what is already clear is that Pope Francis has reshaped the playing field. By appointing 108 out of the 135 cardinals who are eligible to vote (those under 80), the late pope has significantly influenced the future direction of the Church. These men reflect his global vision and progressive leanings—many are from developing nations, places where Catholicism is growing rather than shrinking.
This is a major shift from tradition. For centuries, the selection of popes was heavily dominated by Europe, particularly Italy. But Francis, the first Latin American pope, disrupted that pattern. During his papacy, he appointed cardinals from countries such as Rwanda, Myanmar, Mongolia, and Tonga—regions previously overlooked by the Vatican hierarchy. His goal was clear: to make the Church less Eurocentric and more representative of its global flock.
The upcoming conclave, expected to begin in the coming days, will take place within the hallowed walls of the Sistine Chapel. There, the cardinal electors will engage in a highly confidential voting process until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority. Only then will white smoke rise from the chapel’s chimney—a signal to the world that a new pope has been chosen.
Much speculation surrounds the ideological direction the cardinals may choose. Will they continue down Francis’ progressive path—marked by an inclusive stance toward LGBTQ Catholics, environmental stewardship, and outreach to the marginalized? Or will they seek a conservative pivot, restoring traditional practices and doctrines?
One influential figure to watch is Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington, D.C., known as a staunch supporter of Pope Francis’ vision. Yet, history has shown that conclaves can be unpredictable.
Even though most of the electors were appointed by Francis, that doesn’t guarantee a like-minded successor. The College of Cardinals may opt for continuity—or may surprise the world entirely, as they did in 2013 when they elected Francis.
Even cardinals above 80, while no longer eligible to vote, play a role in shaping the outcome. In the days leading up to the conclave, they participate in General Congregations—meetings that help define the qualities the next pope should possess based on the challenges facing the Church.
Ultimately, the conclave is not just about electing a new leader—it’s about setting the direction of the Church for decades to come. As Catholics await the signal of white smoke, one thing is certain: the world will be watching.
