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3w ago

Cardinal Becciu Withdraws, Conclave Prepares to Elect Pope Francis's Successor

With Becciu's exit and 133 electors confirmed under a papal exemption, frontrunners Parolin and Tagle lead the race as the May 7 conclave nears.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, right, talks with Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti prior to the start of a mass on the fifth of nine days of mourning for late Pope Francis, in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, Wednesday, April 30, 2025.
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Overview

  • Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, convicted of financial misconduct in 2023, has formally withdrawn from the upcoming papal conclave following letters from the late Pope Francis urging his non-participation.
  • The conclave, set to begin May 7 in the Sistine Chapel, will see 133 cardinal-electors eligible to vote, exceeding the traditional 120 limit due to an exemption granted by Pope Francis.
  • Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's secretary of state, is viewed as the leading candidate, representing a continuation of Francis's centrist policies.
  • Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, known for his advocacy for inclusivity and compassion within the Church, is another strong contender in the election.
  • Other candidates, including Matteo Zuppi, Peter Turkson, and traditionalists like Robert Sarah, reflect the diverse ideological factions within the College of Cardinals.