There’s some buzz out of Vatican City—talk is heating up about who might take over as the next pope, as Pope Francis continues to step back from his duties.
It’s a big deal for the Catholic Church, which has over 1.4 billion followers worldwide, including thousands here in New Zealand. The next pope will play a major role in shaping the Church’s direction on everything from climate change to how it connects with younger generations.
So how does it work?
A group of cardinals—133 of them, all under the age of 80—will gather in Vatican City to vote on who takes over. They meet in private inside the Sistine Chapel, and it usually takes a few rounds of voting to land on someone. It’s a tradition that dates back centuries and doesn’t change fast.
Names being tossed around
While there’s no official shortlist, a few well-known figures are being talked about:
- Cardinal Parolin (Italy) – Seen as a safe pick. He’s currently second-in-command at the Vatican and close to Pope Francis.
- Cardinal Tagle (Philippines) – Popular across Asia and seen as a modern, approachable leader.
- Cardinal Turkson (Ghana) – A strong voice for justice and climate issues. He’s been in the mix before.
- Cardinal Zuppi (Italy) – Known for focusing on community and social care.
- Cardinal Besungu (DR Congo) – Traditional in his views, but well-respected.
Why Kiwis should care
This isn’t just a far-off Vatican headline. The new pope will influence how the Church responds to modern issues right here in NZ—from how parishes support their communities to broader conversations around inclusion and change. Whether they go for continuity or a more traditional approach, this decision matters more than most people think.
