Could One of These Men Accede to the Throne of Saint Peter?

Pope Francis’s failing health and questions about his possible resignation have observers looking to the leading princes.

AP/Alessandra Tarantino, file)
Luis Cardinal Tagle at the Vatican in October 2018. AP/Alessandra Tarantino, file)

A Filipino cardinal known for riding public transit and making YouTube videos of himself singing and playing guitar is one of the leading contenders to follow Pope Francis, whose poor health is raising questions over his tenure as head of the Catholic church. 

Other prospects include a more daring liberal, Pietro Cardinal Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state; a Hungarian, Peter Cardinal Erdo, who is frontrunner in the conservative camp; and a compromise candidate, Matteo Cardinal Zuppi, the archbishop of Bologna. 

Enter your email to read this article.

Get 2 free articles when you subscribe.

or
Have an account? This is also a sign-in form.
By continuing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Advertisement
The New York Sun

© 2025 The New York Sun Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The material on this site is protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used.

The New York Sun

Sign in or  Create a free account

or
By continuing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use