Will the next Pope be from Africa or Asia?

Pars Today - The passing of Pope Francis has directed the Vatican toward a historic ceremony to elect his successor; could the next pope be from Africa or Asia?

The death of Pope Francis at the age of 88 has raised questions about the next leader of the global Catholic Church. According to Pars Today, the Vatican announced on Monday that Francis, originally named Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away after being hospitalized due to a respiratory infection. Since 2013, he had served as the first non-European pope since 8^th century. 

The selection of his successor will be carried out by the College of Cardinals, composed of 138 cardinals under the age of 80 (110 of whom were appointed by Francis), during the papal conclave. This process, which begins two to three weeks after the pope's passing, includes a secret ballot held in the Sistine Chapel. The candidate must be a baptized Catholic man and is typically chosen from among the cardinals. 

The diversity of cardinals appointed by Francis has increased the likelihood of selecting a pope from Africa or Asia for the first time in recent centuries. From Africa, Peter Turkson of Ghana, who served on the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, and Fridolin Ambongo of the Congo, known for his efforts toward peace, are prominent candidates. Both are conservatives and have been influential in their respective countries. 

In Asia, Luis Tagle of the Philippines stands a strong chance due to his similarity to Francis in emphasizing social justice and could become the first Asian pope. In Europe, Péter Erdő of Hungary, with a focus on church unity, and Pietro Parolin, a prominent Vatican diplomat, are key contenders. Parolin, seen as a moderate candidate, could become the first Italian pope after three non-Italian popes. Matteo Zuppi of Italy and Mario Grech of Malta are also notable candidates due to their close ties to Francis. 

Francis was renowned for his simplicity, support for the poor, and efforts against ethical scandals, and the diversity of his appointed cardinals reflects his goal of globalizing the Church. The selection of the next pope, given the spiritual and political influence of this position, holds significance not only for Catholics but for the entire world. The Vatican will soon announce the details of the funeral and conclave ceremonies.

MG