Some cardinals are looking for a new pope who will continue with Francis’ push for a more transparent, welcoming Church, while others are seeking retrenchment to more traditional roots that put a premium on doctrine.
All 133 voting cardinals have arrived in Rome for Wednesday’s conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor, with the race described as wide open. The sealed-door voting in the Sistine Chapel begins after days of deliberations revealing deep divides—between reformers backing Francis’ inclusive vision and traditionalists prioritizing doctrine. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni cited “strong concern” about internal splits, including debates on same-sex blessings and women’s roles, as cardinals seek a pope who can be “a bridge and a guide.”
While names like Italy’s Pietro Parolin and the Philippines’ Luis Antonio Tagle circulate, British Cardinal Vincent Nichols admitted: “My list is changing… It’s far from concluded.” The conclave, requiring a three-quarters majority, may stretch days. German Cardinal Walter Kasper, though ineligible to vote, predicted the election of a pastoral leader: “People want a pope to follow Francis… not one closeted in palaces.”
Two cardinals—from Spain and Kenya—will miss the vote due to illness. Meanwhile, 180 cardinals (132 electors) attended Monday’s talks, with discussions focusing on governance challenges. The 133rd elector, present in Rome, skipped deliberations. Cardinals will be sequestered in Vatican guesthouses from Tuesday, cut off from external contact until white smoke signals a decision.
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