State of the World from NPR Who are the Cardinals Who Will Pick the Next Pope?
May 6, 2025
The upcoming papal conclave in the Vatican will witness a historic gathering of 133 cardinals, marking a shift in representation with fewer than half being European. Delve into how the diverse backgrounds of these cardinals from the global south could reshape the direction of the Catholic Church. Listen in as they discuss the networking strategies among cardinals and how influential senior members might guide new voters. Personal stories of resilience add depth to their vision for the future.
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Historic Geographic Shift in Cardinals
- For the first time, fewer than half of the voting cardinals are European in this conclave.
- Pope Francis appointed many cardinals from the global south, shifting the church's geographic power balance.
Cardinal Nzapalenga's Peace Effort
- Cardinal Diodle Nzapalenga risked his life to save a Muslim leader during sectarian conflict in the Central African Republic.
- He hosted a Muslim imam in his home to promote peace between Christian and Muslim factions.
Pope Francis’ Quiet Revolution
- Pope Francis' appointments created a more global cardinalate, a quiet revolution in the church.
- However, some factions seek a return to a more traditional, Western-centric church.