Leading Contenders After Pope Francis’ Passing
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 26, 2025, the Catholic Church is preparing for a historic conclave to elect a new leader. While the Holy Spirit ultimately guides the election, observers, bookmakers, and Church insiders have their eyes on a few prominent cardinals.
Here’s the updated list of major contenders — including Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith of Sri Lanka.
🏆 Top Contenders for the Papacy
1. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
- Current Role: Vatican Secretary of State
- Profile: A seasoned diplomat and close advisor to the last two popes, Parolin is considered the establishment’s favorite.
- Odds: +200 (2:1 favorite)
2. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
- Current Role: Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples
- Profile: Warm, pastoral, and popular in the Global South. Seen as a continuation of Pope Francis’ vision with an Asian focus.
- Odds: 3:1
3. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy)
- Current Role: Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem
- Profile: Deep experience in interfaith dialogue and Middle East diplomacy. Seen as a fresh, bridge-building candidate.
- Odds: 5:1
4. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo (Democratic Republic of Congo)
- Current Role: Archbishop of Kinshasa
- Profile: Vocal advocate for social justice and environmental issues in Africa. Would represent a shift toward the Global South.
- Odds: 6:1
5. Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary)
- Current Role: Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest
- Profile: Highly respected canon lawyer with a conservative theological outlook, appealing to traditionalists.
- Odds: 8:1
6. Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith (Sri Lanka) 🇱🇰
- Current Role: Archbishop of Colombo
- Profile: Known for his strong traditionalist views, opposition to liberal theological trends, and emphasis on Church discipline. His leadership during Sri Lanka’s religious tensions and his outspokenness on global Catholic issues have kept him in the spotlight.
- Odds: 15:1
🕊️ The Conclave Process
The conclave will involve 135 cardinal-electors under the age of 80, convening in the Sistine Chapel. The process is deeply secretive and requires a two-thirds majority to elect the new pope.
While odds and expert opinions provide a glimpse into potential outcomes, history shows that the conclave often delivers surprises — with the Holy Spirit often choosing a path unseen by bookmakers.
Could Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith Be the Next Pope?
A Traditional Voice from Asia Gains Global Attention
As the Catholic Church prepares for a historic conclave following the death of Pope Francis, attention is turning toward a range of potential successors.
Among the names gaining momentum is Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo, a figure known for his unwavering commitment to Catholic tradition and his global outlook.
While betting markets still favor European and Latin American candidates, analysts and Church observers argue that Cardinal Ranjith represents a unique and powerful choice for the future of the Catholic Church.
A Guardian of Catholic Tradition
Throughout his career, Cardinal Ranjith has been a consistent defender of Catholic orthodoxy.
He has vocally supported the traditional Latin Mass, opposed theological innovations not grounded in longstanding Church teaching, and emphasized the need for reverence in worship.
“In a time when many faithful feel uncertain, Cardinal Ranjith offers clarity,” said one Vatican insider.
“He would bring strong moral leadership, rooted deeply in the teachings of Christ and the Apostles.”
A Global Voice for a Global Church
Born in Sri Lanka, Cardinal Ranjith would represent a major geographic shift for the papacy.
As the first pope from Asia in modern times, he would symbolize the growing importance of the Global South, where Catholicism is thriving even as numbers decline in parts of Europe.
His leadership in a multi-religious society has given him firsthand experience in managing interfaith relationships — an essential skill for a Church increasingly engaged with a pluralistic world.
“His election would affirm that the Catholic Church is not just European, but truly universal,” noted Dr. Lucia Benavides, a professor of World Christianity.
Diplomatic Strength and Moral Courage
In addition to his pastoral work, Cardinal Ranjith has served in several key diplomatic roles within the Vatican, including as Secretary of the Congregation for Divine Worship and as a papal nuncio.
He is known for balancing diplomacy with a steadfast defense of Catholic values.
His leadership following the 2019 Easter bombings in Sri Lanka, where he became a national moral voice demanding justice and peace, further highlighted his courage and pastoral sensitivity in the face of tragedy.
A Call for Spiritual Renewal
Unlike some more administrative candidates, Cardinal Ranjith has consistently emphasized the need for spiritual renewal within the Church.
Observers believe his papacy would focus strongly on:
- Revitalizing traditional practices like Eucharistic Adoration and Marian devotion,
- Promoting silent prayer and inner conversion,
- Strengthening seminary formation to foster holy and disciplined priests.
“He sees the Church not simply as an institution to be managed, but as a divine mystery to be lived and loved,” said one Sri Lankan priest close to him.
What Are His Chances?
While Cardinal Ranjith is not among the frontrunners in betting markets — where figures like Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle currently lead — insiders say that in a conclave, unexpected outcomes often occur.
At 77 years old, his age may be a consideration. However, recent papal elections have shown that cardinals are willing to prioritize experience, holiness, and strength of leadership over youth.
If the conclave seeks a pope who would offer clear doctrine, global representation, spiritual depth, and fearless leadership, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith could emerge as a strong and unifying choice.
🧠 Quick Thoughts
- Cardinal Parolin remains the “safe” Vatican choice.
- Cardinal Tagle could represent a younger, pastoral, global Church.
- Cardinal Ranjith is the flag-bearer for traditionalists looking for a theological reset.
- African and Asian candidates signal the Church’s growing shift away from its European center.
